Environment

Scientists have detected a massive lithium plume in Earth's upper atmosphere, traced to a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket that broke up over Poland in February 2025[^1]. Using ground-based laser measurements, researchers found lithium levels increased tenfold at 96 kilometers altitude, about 20 hours after the rocket's uncontrolled re-entry[^1].

The Falcon 9's upper stage, which contained an estimated 30 kg of lithium in its aluminum alloy tank walls, released significantly more lithium than the typical 80 grams that enters the atmosphere daily from cosmic dust[^1].

"This finding supports growing concerns that space traffic may pollute the upper atmosphere in ways not yet fully understood," according to the research paper published in February 2026[^1]. The scientists warn this could become a recurring issue as more satellites and rockets re-enter Earth's atmosphere.

The study marks two firsts: the initial measurement of upper-atmosphere pollution from space debris re-entry, and proof that ground-based lidar can detect space debris burning up[^1]. The research team used a specialized dye laser system in Germany that could detect lithium atoms in the mesosphere while maintaining strict safety protocols for aircraft[^10].

[^1]: The Register - Euro boffins track lithium plume from Falcon 9 burn-up

[^10]: ACS - How powerful lasers can measure air pollution from space debris