U.S. agency adopts new space junk rules to reduce exploration risks

The U.S. Federal Communications Commission voted 4-0 Thursday on to adopt new rules to address the growing risks of orbital debris to space exploration.

The FCC voted to shorten the period required for satellites in low-Earth orbit for post-mission disposal from 25 years to five years.

"It will mean more accountability and less risk of collisions that increase orbital debris and the likelihood of space communication failures," FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel said.

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