How Science Fiction’s Clarke Belt Became our Geostationary Satellite Reality

Clarke’s ring of satellites became the backbone of global communications and most astronomers and engineers say science fiction was an influence on their careers. Stories and technical papers feed into each other, creating a feedback loop. The Clarke Belt, once a thought experiment, is now a busy highway of spacecraft. As we manage orbital debris, share the radio spectrum and go deep space, we should remember that the next big tech may be in a book or movie. Celebrating the imaginative origins of our infrastructure might just guide us to more responsible futures. The Clarke Belt is a testament to the power of speculation; our job is to make sure this ring of satellites serves humanity and inspires the next generation of dreamers and builders.