Researchers: Rocket launches could harm ozone
AP - Some atmospheric researchers are suggesting that rocket launches may have to be restricted in the future to avoid serious damage to the Earth’s protective ozone layer.
Future ozone losses from the increasing number of rocket launches could eventually exceed the damage caused by CFCs, the chemical compound banned from use in aerosols, freezers and air conditioners.
“As the rocket launch market grows, so will ozone-destroying rocket emissions,” said Darin Toohey of the University of Colorado at Boulder’s atmospheric and oceanic sciences department. “If left unregulated, rocket launches by the year 2050 could result in more ozone destruction than was ever realized by CFCs.”
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POSTED: Thursday, April 2nd, 2009
