IELTS Band 9 Essay About The increasing frequency of satellite launches and space
Here we take a look at a band 9 ielts writing task 2 sample about “The increasing frequency of satellite launches and space. This sample then will be further analyzed for its vocabulary, grammar and format, so we see how it has qualified for such band score. We also suggest over 200 band 9 IELTS samples released in 2025.
Sample Answer (Band 9)
The increasing frequency of satellite launches and space debris is becoming a threat to the Earth.
What are the main causes?
What measures can be taken to address this?
The proliferation of satellite launches and the accumulation of space debris pose significant challenges to Earth’s environment and space exploration efforts. Understanding the underlying causes and implementing effective measures are essential to mitigate these threats.
One of the primary causes of this issue is the rapid advancement in satellite technology and the increasing demand for global connectivity. Governments and private companies are launching thousands of satellites to facilitate communication, navigation, and surveillance. However, many of these satellites have limited lifespans, leading to a buildup of non-functional equipment in Earth’s orbit. Additionally, the lack of stringent international regulations regarding the disposal of decommissioned satellites exacerbates the problem. Collisions between debris further generate smaller fragments, which create an escalating cycle of orbital clutter.
Another contributing factor is the relatively low cost of launching small satellites, which has democratized access to space. While this has fostered innovation, it has also resulted in overcrowding, especially in low Earth orbit. The phenomenon of the “Kessler Syndrome,” where collisions between space debris make certain orbits unusable, is becoming an increasingly plausible scenario.
To address this issue, comprehensive measures must be adopted. Firstly, international collaboration is crucial to establish and enforce regulations for responsible satellite launches and debris management. Organizations like the United Nations could play a pivotal role in setting guidelines for debris mitigation and ensuring compliance. Secondly, technological innovations such as satellite retrieval systems and space debris removal missions should be prioritized. Several prototypes, such as nets, harpoons, and robotic arms, have shown promise in cleaning up orbiting debris.
Furthermore, designing satellites with longer lifespans and equipping them with propulsion systems for controlled deorbiting can prevent future accumulation. Public and private sectors should also invest in “active debris removal” programs, which focus on clearing critical areas in space. Lastly, raising awareness among stakeholders about the long-term consequences of orbital congestion can foster a more responsible approach to satellite deployment.
In conclusion, the rising frequency of satellite launches and space debris is driven by technological advances and a lack of regulatory frameworks. Addressing this growing threat requires international cooperation, technological innovation, and stricter policies to ensure the sustainability of space exploration for future generations.
Vocabulary in the sample for the increasing frequency of satellite launches and space
- Proliferation (/ˌprɒlɪfəˈreɪʃən/): Rapid increase or spread.
- Sentence: The proliferation of satellites has led to overcrowded orbital zones.
- Regulations (/ˌrɛɡjʊˈleɪʃənz/): Official rules or directives.
- Sentence: International regulations are needed to mitigate space debris.
- Comprehensive (/ˌkɒmprɪˈhɛnsɪv/): Complete and thorough.
- Sentence: A comprehensive strategy is required to address the issue effectively.
- Collaboration (/kəˌlæbəˈreɪʃən/): Working together toward a common goal.
- Sentence: Global collaboration can lead to effective debris mitigation efforts.
- Mitigation (/ˌmɪtɪˈɡeɪʃən/): The act of reducing the severity of something.
- Sentence: Technological innovation is crucial for the mitigation of space debris.
Advanced Grammar Structures:
- Complex Sentences with Subordinating Conjunctions:
- Example: “While this has fostered innovation, it has also resulted in overcrowding, especially in low Earth orbit.”
- This structure adds depth by connecting contrasting ideas, showcasing a nuanced understanding.
- Passive Voice:
- Example: “Several prototypes, such as nets, harpoons, and robotic arms, have shown promise in cleaning up orbiting debris.”
- The passive voice emphasizes the action and its importance rather than the subject.
- Nominalization:
- Example: “Understanding the underlying causes and implementing effective measures are essential to mitigate these threats.”
- Nominalization (e.g., “understanding” and “implementing”) creates a formal tone.
- Conditional Sentences:
- Example: “If international regulations are not enforced, the issue of space debris will continue to worsen.”
- Conditional sentences demonstrate logical reasoning.
Use of Academic Adverbs:
- Example: “Organizations like the United Nations could play a pivotal role in setting guidelines for debris mitigation and ensuring compliance.”
- Adverbs like “pivotal” and “crucial” enhance the formality and precision of arguments.
Free IELTS Sample Essays with Answers PDF
Here you can download over a 1000 sample essays in pdf written by ex ielts examiners: PDF 1 / PDF 2 / PDF 3 / PDF 4 / PDF 5
Last But Not Least!
We suggest a useful IELTS website in English for more valuable IELTS sample essays on a range of topics. Our final suggestion is our writing free correction Telegram channel where you can send your own sample for evaluation and correction by an experience IELTS tutor with over a decade of practical experience in this matter.