Earthview - the Overview Effect

The effect on astronauts viewing Earth from space is called the Overview Effect, a cognitive shift that can lead to a profound sense of awe, a deeper appreciation for the planet's fragility, and a feeling of interconnectedness with all of humanity. This transformative experience can alter their perspective, leading to a more holistic view of the world without man-made borders and a sense of planetary responsibility. Emotional and psychological effects

• Awe and wonder: Astronauts report being overwhelmed by the beauty of Earth, describing it as a "living, breathing organism".

• Sense of fragility: Seeing the planet as a "fragile blue marble" floating in space can create a powerful realization of how delicate life is and how thin the atmosphere is.

• Connection to humanity: The lack of visible borders in space can foster a strong sense of unity and shared identity, leading to a feeling that all people are part of one human family.

• Shift in perspective: The experience can lead to a change in their value system, a greater sense of planetary stewardship, and a more hopeful worldview.

Cognitive and philosophical effects

• Interconnectedness: Many astronauts describe seeing the interconnectedness of everything on Earth, from weather patterns to the molecules that make up their own bodies and the spacecraft.

• Appreciation for Earth: The view can evoke a newfound and fierce sense of belonging and a deep appreciation for Earth as our only home and life support system.

• Realization of shared problems: Observing environmental issues like deforestation, pollution, or the impact of natural disasters from space can highlight that these problems affect everyone on a global scal

The Overview Effect describes the phenomenon experienced by astronauts when they first see planet Earth from space. The term was coined by Frank White's 1987 book of the same name. The Overview Effect is described as an experience that changes one's perspective on planet Earth and humanity. Key characteristics include a sense of awe, a profound understanding of the interconnectedness of all life on Earth, and a renewed sense of responsibility for our environment. 

Real time tracking of satellites in Earth´s orbit - SatelliteMap - Space

Currently (as of late 2024/early 2025), over 10,000 active satellites are orbiting the Earth, with the number increasing rapidly, led by SpaceX's Starlink satellites. In addition to the active satellites, there are tens of thousands of larger pieces of debris and millions of smaller objects (space junk) in orbit, posing a growing threat. 

Current figures: Active satellites: Over 10,000, with around 12,000 expected by late 2024/early 2025. Ownership: Over two-thirds of all active satellites belong to SpaceX. Space junk

(by size): 10 cm: approx. 36,500 tracked objects. 

1 cm: approx. 1 million objects. 

1 mm: approx. 170 million objects.