This report utilizes most recent meteoroid flux data and illustrates the method used in calculating the probability of meteoroid puncture for a space-suited crewman in earth orbit. An example of the method is shown and uncertainties in the prediction are reviewed. Finally, guidelines are presented that could be followed in planning an experimental program of penetration studies on space suit materials intended to resolve some of these areas of uncertainty. (Author).

The 37-year (1961-1998) history of orbital debris concerns. Tracks orbital debris hazard creation, research, observation, experimentation, management, mitigation, protection, and policy. Includes debris-producing, events; U.N. orbital debris treaties, Space Shuttle and space station orbital debris issues; ASAT tests; milestones in theory and modeling; uncontrolled reentries; detection system development; shielding development; geosynchronous debris issues, including reboost policies: returned surfaces studies, seminar papers reports, conferences, and studies; the increasing effect of space activities on astronomy; and growing international awareness of the near-Earth environment.