The edge of space: Revisiting the Karman Line

TL;DR

This paper reevaluates the boundary between Earth's atmosphere and space, proposing 80 km as a more accurate Karman line based on historical, physical, and technological considerations.

Contribution

It introduces a revised boundary at 80 km altitude, challenging the traditional 100 km Karman line, with comprehensive analysis of various defining criteria.

Findings

80 km is a more appropriate boundary than 100 km

Historical and technological analysis supports the 80 km proposal

Revised boundary impacts space policy and vehicle design

Abstract

In this paper I revisit proposed definitions of the boundary between the Earth's atmosphere and outer space, considering orbital and suborbital trajectories used by space vehicles. In particular, I investigate the inner edge of outer space from historical, physical and technological viewpoints and propose 80 kilometers as a more appropriate boundary than the currently popular 100 km Von K\'{a}rm\'{a}n line.