Space policy experts are beginning to discuss a surveillance and collision avoidance service -- a traffic cop-like tactic to better regulate outer space.
Theresa Hitchens argues the "failure to stem the creation of space debris will undercut the security of all assets in space, increasing the likelihood of collisions and possible conflict over liability for them." She offers a number of actions for the international community to pursue, including an "open, publicly available space surveillance network and database."
The U.N. Office for Outer Space Affairs is considering proposals to establish pollution and air traffic controls in orbit.
The remains of rockets are raining from space, hitting Earth with disturbing frequency. While no one yet has been killed or seriously hurt, scientists say the risk of injury is greater, as more and more pieces reach the ground.
The author argues that spacefaring nations should pursue space traffic management to prevent collisions and avoid conflict.