space debris

[/speɪs ˈdɛbrɪs/]
nounpl: space debris (uncountable)
detritos espaciais
1. Fragments and particles of artificial objects in orbit around Earth or other celestial bodies, resulting from satellite explosions, collisions, or deterioration
Space debris poses a significant threat to operational satellites and manned spacecraft.
Os detritos espaciais representam uma ameaça significativa para os satélites operacionais e naves espaciais tripuladas.
2. Non-functional spacecraft, spent rocket stages, or fragments thereof left in orbit
The collision between two satellites created thousands of pieces of space debris.
A colisão entre dois satélites criou milhares de pedaços de detritos espaciais.
Space debris has become an increasingly pressing concern in both American and Brazilian space agencies. NASA and ESA actively track debris, while Brazil's space program (AEB) participates in international initiatives to monitor and mitigate space debris. The term reflects growing awareness of environmental issues extending beyond Earth's atmosphere.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
orbital debrisspace junkorbital junkspace waste

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
detritos espaciais
Standard formal term used in scientific and technical contexts
Brazil (informal)
lixo espacial
More colloquial usage, literally 'space trash'
Portugal
detritos espaciais
Same as Brazilian Portuguese, formal scientific terminology
Portugal (informal)
entulho espacial
Less common colloquial variant

Related Words

satellitecollision avoidanceKessler syndromemicrometeoroidorbital mechanicslaunch vehicle

Related Idioms & Phrases

a ticking time bomb in orbit
cascading collisions
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