How do greenhouse gases affect internet speed?

In the modern world, the Internet and satellite technologies have become an integral part of our lives. However, a recent study by scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has shown that climate change and greenhouse gases can seriously affect satellite communications.

What's the problem?

Greenhouse gas emissions - carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄) and other gases - cool the upper atmosphere, leading to a decrease in the density of the thermosphere. This reduces air resistance and allows space debris to remain in orbit longer.

Today, more than 10,000 satellites provide internet, navigation and weather monitoring services at altitudes of 160 km to 2,000 km. They need a clean and safe orbital environment to send data to Earth. However, as the density of the thermosphere decreases, the process of clearing orbital debris slows down, which can create a dangerous environment for satellites.

What are the risks?

1. Changes in the orbit of satellites
Scientists have analyzed the situation with NASA's Aura satellite. Its trajectory has become unstable under the influence of greenhouse gases. This means that in the future such satellites may not be able to function properly.

2. Increased probability of satellite collisions
Space debris in orbit should naturally decrease due to air resistance. If this process slows down, the amount of debris will increase and satellites may collide with each other. This poses a great threat to communication and internet systems.

3. Decrease in Internet quality
Internet communication depends on signals transmitted from satellites. If the space environment changes dramatically, this can lead to a decrease in Internet speed and quality. Especially in adverse weather conditions, the signal weakens, which makes it difficult to connect to the Internet in remote areas.

What threats are expected in the future?

According to calculations, greenhouse gases are reducing the density of the atmosphere at an altitude of 400 km by 2% every 10 years. If this process continues, by 2100, the number of satellites suitable for operation at an altitude of 200 km - 1000 km may decrease by 50-66%.

This can lead to a state of “unstoppable instability”. That is, a chain reaction of emissions can begin, and some orbital regions can become unusable.

What to do?

To solve these problems, scientists recommend the following measures:

• Controlling greenhouse gas emissions - this will help prevent climate change and maintain balance in the upper atmosphere.
  
• Space debris monitoring - improving methods for monitoring and reducing debris in orbit.
  
• Developing satellites based on new technologies - adapting them to dangerous conditions, introducing high-precision navigation systems.
  

Greenhouse gases affect not only the Earth's climate, but also satellites in space. If this problem is not taken seriously, there is a risk of serious deterioration in the quality of Internet connections, navigation systems, and air monitoring systems in the future.

Technological progress and maintaining ecological balance should be one of the most important tasks in this regard. If measures are not taken now, the possibility of using the Internet in 100 years may be limited. Follow “Zamin” news on “Telegram”