Eye-opening numbers on space debris
(PHYSorg.com Space & Earth)

Orbital debris, otherwise known as `space junk`, is a major concern. This massive cloud that orbits the Earth is the result of the many satellites, platforms and spent launchers that have been sent into space over the years. And as time went on, collisions between these objects (as well as disintegrations and erosion) has created even more in the way of debris.