GRADES 9–12 · 45 MINUTES

Design the end of a mission

Goal: Evaluate mission-ending choices using evidence, constraints, and uncertainty. Materials: paper, pencils, and the ESA source below.

Mission brief · 5 minutes

A fictional Earth-observation satellite in low Earth orbit is nearing retirement. Your team must recommend what happens next. Its exact orbit, remaining fuel, reliability, and reentry risks have not been supplied.

Research · 10 minutes

Read ESA’s Clean Space overview. List information needed before choosing a disposal approach. Separate evidence from assumptions.

Compare · 15 minutes

1. An end-of-mission maneuver that reduces time in orbit.
2. A disposal design that does not rely solely on the main propulsion system.
3. An external removal service for an unresponsive spacecraft.

For each, consider hardware or fuel needs, reliability, feasibility, and possible risks to people or other spacecraft. No option is automatically suitable for every mission.

Recommend · 10 minutes

Write 150–200 words giving a choice, two reasons, one tradeoff, one missing fact, and what would change your decision.

Reflect · 5 minutes

Why should planning for the end of a mission begin before launch?

Educator notes

This is a qualitative design exercise, not an operational disposal plan. Assess evidence, reasoning, and acknowledgment of constraints. A strong response may explain that more data are required.

Sources and further reading

ESA Clean Space · Secure World Foundation

Original introductory activity from Space Conservancy. Draft educational resource; not reviewed or endorsed by the linked organizations. No formal curriculum standards alignment is claimed.