Space Mapping for Satellite Traffic Management: Predicting Collision Risks in Space

On April 15, 2025, a group of young science reporters visited the headquarters of Dongascience in Seoul to learn how South Korean company Spacemap is addressing the growing challenge of satellite traffic management through real-time tracking and collision prediction technology. The visit was part of the first field mission for the third generation of the Children’s Space Reporter program, an initiative by the science magazine Children’s Science DongA designed to inspire elementary students toward careers in space science and technology.

During the session, Spacemap researcher Hyun-oh Heo presented a visualization of Earth’s surrounding orbit filled with satellites and space debris, prompting the young reporters to consider what happens when spacecraft collide in orbit. The demonstration highlighted the growing risk of orbital collisions as the number of objects in space continues to rise, a concern underscored by recent military exercises involving satellite maneuvering observed by international defense agencies.

Spacemap, founded in September 2021 by Professor Deok-soo Kim of Hanyang University’s Department of Mechanical Engineering, specializes in space situational awareness and space traffic management. The company develops systems that monitor the position and movement of artificial satellites and debris to predict potential collisions and support safe satellite operations. Its technology enables operators to assess collision risks and make informed decisions about satellite maneuvers to avoid impacts in orbit.

The Children’s Space Reporter program has engaged over 1,800 elementary students since its launch in 2024, with participants completing dozens of space-themed missions. In 2025, 1,832 elementary students carried out over 40 space missions as space reporters, and the two students selected as the final junior astronauts visited NASA.

As part of the hands-on experience, the junior reporters used ’42SAGA,’ a space education platform developed by Spacemap, which allows users to learn by observing space in a digital twin, create their own avatar satellite, analyze its collision risks with real satellites, perform orbital adjustments, and even take satellite photos. This interactive tool was designed to teach the importance of space traffic management, a key component of the future space industry, and to provide children with the opportunity to operate satellites in a virtual space environment.

While the primary focus of the Children’s Space Reporter program is on science education and inspiring future careers in space technology, the increasing congestion of Earth’s orbit raises broader concerns about the long-term sustainability of space activities. Experts warn that uncontrolled growth in satellite debris could trigger a cascade effect known as Kessler Syndrome, where collisions generate more debris, increasing the likelihood of further collisions and potentially rendering certain orbital ranges unusable for generations.

Although the Spacemap technology described in the report focuses on preventing satellite collisions through predictive modeling and real-time monitoring, the broader implications of space traffic management touch on public health and safety. Uncontrolled debris in orbit could eventually interfere with weather satellites, communication systems, and global positioning networks — services that underpin modern healthcare infrastructure, emergency response, and telemedicine.

By engaging young students in hands-on learning about satellite operations and orbital safety, programs like the Children’s Space Reporter corps aim to build early awareness of the responsibilities that come with advancing space technology. This educational approach supports long-term efforts to promote sustainable practices in space exploration, which indirectly contributes to protecting the technological systems that support global health and well-being.