What kind of problem is 34,000 pieces of space junk circling the Earth?

NPR | By Ayesha Rascoe

Published August 9, 2026 at 8:12 AM EDT

A derelict SpaceX rocket plowed into the moon Aug. 8, reigniting a debate about space junk. NPR's Ayesha Rascoe talks to John Crassidis from the University at Buffalo about the issue.

Ayesha Rascoe

Ayesha Rascoe is the host of Weekend Edition Sunday and the Saturday episodes of Up First.

See stories by Ayesha Rascoe

WRVO is at a critical moment.

Recent cuts to federal funding are challenging our mission to serve central and upstate New York with trusted journalism, vital local coverage, and the diverse programming that informs and connects our communities. This is the moment to join our community of supporters and help keep journalists on the ground, asking hard questions that matter to our region.

Stand with public media and make your gift today—not just for yourself, but for all who depend on WRVO as a trusted resource and civic cornerstone in central and upstate New York.

Support WRVO now