MARCIA DUNN, AP Aerospace Writer
International Space Station Avoids Space Junk
CAPE CANAVERAL, Florida (AP) – The International Space Station is out of harm’s way after flying higher to avoid space junk.
Debris From Chinese Satellite Prompts Action
Flight controllers raised the space station’s orbit by a mile Wednesday. That’s because a small piece of debris from an old Chinese satellite was going to come dangerously close. Without the maneuver, the two objects would have come within seven-tenths of a mile later in the morning, too close for NASA’s comfort.
Safety Measures for Space Station Crew
The three space station astronauts were informed of the situation. NASA says they were never in danger.
Planned Maneuver Adjusted After Avoidance
A maneuver had been planned anyway for later Wednesday in preparation for the launch of three more astronauts on Nov. 23 from Kazakhstan. Now, that engine firing won’t be needed.
