  In this work the orbital dynamics of Earth satellites about the
geosynchronous altitude are explored, with primary goal to assess current
mitigation guidelines as well as to discuss the future exploitation of the
region. A thorough dynamical mapping was conducted in a high-definition grid of
orbital elements, enabled by a fast and accurate semi-analytical propagator,
which considers all the relevant perturbations. The results are presented in
appropriately selected stability maps to highlight the underlying mechanisms
and their interplay, that can lead to stable graveyard orbits or fast re-entry
pathways. The natural separation of the long-term evolution between equatorial
and inclined satellites is discussed in terms of post-mission disposal
strategies. Moreover, we confirm the existence of an effective cleansing
mechanism for inclined geosynchronous satellites and discuss its implications
in terms of current guidelines as well as alternative mission designs that
could lead to a sustainable use of the geosynchronous orbital region.
