'Design for demise' satellites emit ozone-depleting aluminum: Study

A recent study by researchers at MaiaSpace, a subsidiary of ArianeGroup, reveals that the widely adopted “Design for Demise” (D4D) protocol for satellites, which ensures spacecraft burn up completely upon re-entry to minimize ground risk, is inadvertently harming the stratospheric ozone layer. As satellites re-enter the atmosphere and disintegrate, they release aluminum oxide nanoparticles—a byproduct of ablating aluminum components—that catalyze harmful chemical reactions between atmospheric chlorine and ozone. This pollution has reportedly increased eightfold over six years, posing a growing threat to the planet’s natural UV shield. The researchers advocate for a “Design for Non-Demise” (D4ND) approach, where satellites are engineered to survive re-entry and perform controlled descents into remote ocean areas, thereby preventing the release of toxic atmospheric particles. While this method could protect the ozone layer and maintain ground safety, it requires satellites to be more robust, heavier, and equipped with advanced propulsion systems, leading to higher launch