Lixo espacial e os possíveis riscos a exploração do espaço e ao ambiente terrestre: um enfoque na educação básica

Abstract

Since the launch of the first artificial satellite around the Earth until the present date, several non-functional objects are orbiting the planet, called space debris, or simply, space garbage. In this work, we will analyze the evolution of space debris that is present mainly in the three Earth orbits most explored by humanity, as well as the consequences generated by the accumulation of this debris. We will investigate what the States involved directly or indirectly with the generation of this debris have done about this problem, using as a basis the guidelines of international space law and the annual reports of the European Space Agency (ESA). Possible ways to alleviate the situation of space debris accumulation will be investigated taking into account the sustainability of space environment exploration. The present work, in addition to promoting these questions about space debris, also presents a proposal for educational intervention that was used in basic education with the objective of bringing Astronomy, Astronautics and Geography closer to this level of education, engaging them in a proposal interdisciplinary learning. The educational products linked to this work are an activity notebook, entitled: Space Waste – an Approach to Basic Education, and a Guide for the application of thematic workshops in e-book format; both aimed at analyzing at the level of basic education, what are the immediate and mediate impacts of space debris for the maintenance of activities in space in a true system of cause and effect.