This is a real possibility, and it is called Kessler syndrome.
It is a scenario in which the collision of two objects in space creates a
cloud of debris that can then collide with other objects,
creating a chain reaction that could ultimately destroy all of the satellites in orbit.
The risk of Kessler syndrome is increasing as more and more satellites are launched into space.
In 2022, there were over 23,000 objects tracked by the
US Space Surveillance Network that were larger than 10 centimeters.
These objects are traveling at speeds of up to 17,500 miles per hour,
and even a small collision can create a significant amount of debris.
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