#astroscales

[talkoftitusville]

Astroscale Japan Catches Up To Space Junk, Will De-Orbit It

A spent second stage as imaged by Astroscale Japan’s Adras-J spacecraft in April 2024.Photo: Astroscale Japan In his classic book “The Hitchhiker’s Guide To The Galaxy” writer Douglas Adams once said that “Space is big. You just won’t believe how vastly, hugely, mind-bogglingly big it is. I mean, you may think it’s a long way down the road to the chemist’s, but that’s just peanuts to…

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#Astroscale Japan #Space Junk #Space Junk Removal

[reasonsforhope]

We’ve just taken a major step toward cleaning up space junk.

On Monday, October 2, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the US issued its first fine for space debris, ordering the US TV provider Dish to pay $150,000 for failing to move one of its satellites into a safe orbit. 

“It is definitely a very big symbolic moment for debris mitigation,” says Michelle Hanlon, a space lawyer at the University of Mississippi. “It’s a great step in the right direction.”

But it might be more than just a symbolic gesture by the FCC. Not only does it set a precedent for tackling bad actors who leave dangerous junk orbiting Earth, but it could send shock waves through the industry as other satellite operators become wary of having their reputation tarnished. While the $150,000 FCC fine was modest, Dish’s share price fell by nearly 4% immediately following its announcement, pushing the company’s $3 billion valuation down about $100 million.

The FCC’s action could also help breathe new life into the still-small market for commercial removal of space debris, essentially setting a price—$150,000—for companies such as Astroscale in Japan and ClearSpace in Switzerland to aim for in providing services that use smaller spacecraft to sidle up to dead satellites or rockets and pull them back into the atmosphere...

Another hope is that the FCC’s fine will encourage other countries to follow suit with their own enforcement actions on space junk. “It sends a message out of America taking leadership in this area,” says Newman. “This is starting the ball rolling.”

Today there are more than 8,000 active satellites, nearly 2,000 dead satellites, and hundreds of empty rockets orbiting Earth. Managing these objects and preventing collisions is a huge task, and one that is becoming increasingly difficult as the number of satellites grows rapidly. The worsening situation is largely due to mega-constellations of hundreds or thousands of satellites from companies like SpaceX and Amazon, designed to beam the internet to any corner of the globe...

Hanlon says there are further measures that could be taken to discourage companies from failing to dispose of satellites properly. “Honestly, I would love to see that if you don’t meet your license requirements, you’re banned from launching for a number of years,” she says. “If you’re driving under the influence you can have your license revoked. These are the kinds of measures we need to see.”

Chris Johnson, a space law advisor at the Secure World Foundation in the US, says the loss of reputation for Dish about the satellite situation might be worse than any fine it could have received. “They promised to remove it and they didn’t,” he says. “It’s like the first operator of a car to get a speeding ticket.”

The fall in the company’s share price appears to be indicative of that reputational damage. The fine may not have been as severe as it could have been, but the FCC’s actions can be seen as a warning to other companies to tackle space junk. “This is going to be on their record and their reputation,” says Johnson. “It’s not trivial.”

-via MIT Technology Review, October 5, 2023

Always nice to see steps taken to tackle a problem BEFORE it causes incredibly massive issues

#space #space debris #united states #fcc #technology #big tech #satellite #astronomy #good news #hope

[mindblowingscience]

Plenty of news stories have focused on the danger posed by Kessler syndrome. In this condition, space is made inaccessible by a cloud of debris surrounding our planet that would destroy any further attempts to get into orbit. Therefore, plenty of companies have sprung up to take care of the problem, from blasting derelict satellites with lasers to helping to refuel them—lots of business models have been created to capture this opportunity. One of the farthest along is Astroscale. This British start-up is tackling the problem with one of the more conventional techniques—linking up with an existing satellite to deorbit it. And recently, they released a promotional video for their new project—the ELSA-M. ELSA-M, which stands for End of Life Services by Astroscale-Multiple, is designed to couple with an existing satellite, force it into a lower orbit, and make it reenter more quickly. It will be the first satellite to boost itself up to another orbit for a second rendezvous and deorbit that second satellite as well. It's unclear how many of these projects a single ELSA-M satellite can take on, but the "multiple" in its name implies at least more than one.

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#science #stem #space #space exploration #satellites #space trash

[mitchipedia]

Japanese startup Astroscale is preparing a small satellite as a precursor for future missions to service satellites and clear space junk. The first step is catching up to a big piece of orbiting space debris and maneuvering close to it. arstechnica.com

[ramtracking]

Spacecraft approaches metal object zooming around Earth, snaps footage [ Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency ]

Spacecraft approaches metal object zooming around Earth, snaps footage [Highlights] A spacecraft on a space junk removal mission approached a derelict Japanese rocket, capturing unique imagery of the debris in preparation to… A satellite operated by Japanese company Astroscale has chased down a 15 year-old piece of space junk and taken an up-close image of it. The… The private ADRAS-J probe…

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[andronetalks]

Spacecraft approaches metal object zooming around Earth, snaps footage

Mashable By Mark Kaufman on April 27, 2024 A spacecraft has carefully approached and imaged a large hunk of metal orbiting Earth — a step in tackling humanity’s mounting space junk woes. The delicate space mission, undertaken by the Japanese satellite technology company Astroscale, used its ADRAS-J satellite to travel within several hundred meters of an abandoned section of a noncommunicative,…

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#AndronETech #Disclosure #News #Science #Space #World

[swamyworld]

A spacecraft approaches a metal object zooming around Earth, picking up a piece

A spacecraft has carefully approached and imaged a large hunk of metal orbiting Earth — a step in tackling humanity’s mounting space junk problems. A sensitive space mission by Japanese satellite technology company Astroscale used its ADRAS-J satellite to travel within several hundred meters of an abandoned section of an uncommunicating, derelict rocket, proving that it could be safely observed…

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[meteorologistaustenlonek]

"That is human-made space debris, an old rocket upper stage, orbiting Earth. The smart folks at @astroscale_HQ have just flown up next to it, proving their tech. Next time they'll grab & deorbit it, cleaning up a big piece. An excellent start!"

Cmdr. Chris Hadfield

#Col. Chris Hadfield #Space Debris #Cleaning Up Space Debris #Orbital Debris #Astroscale_HQ #deorbiting space junk

[sangamswami]

Navigating the Space Debris Removal Market: Trends, Challenges, and Growth Opportunities

The Space Debris Removal Market, valued at USD 0.1 billion in 2023, is poised for robust expansion, projected to reach USD 0.6 billion by 2028, boasting a staggering CAGR of 41.7%. This market, nestled within the satellite and technology industry, focuses on developing and deploying innovative solutions to eliminate defunct satellites, spent rocket stages, and space fragments, thereby ensuring a cleaner and safer orbital environment.

The Space Debris Removal Market comprises various segments, including technique, orbit, debris size, end user, operation, and region, each contributing to the market's growth trajectory.

Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=179602300

Direct debris removal, involving active capture and removal of orbital debris, emerges as the leading segment, fueled by the pressing need to clear space clutter and mitigate collision risks. Advancements in robotic arms, nets, and propulsion techniques bolster the feasibility and efficacy of direct debris removal methods.

The multiple technique segment witnesses rapid growth, driven by the necessity to deploy a combination of techniques to address debris of varying sizes effectively. Synergistic effects arising from the integration of multiple techniques enhance the efficiency and efficacy of debris removal missions, catering to evolving business and mission requirements.

The commercial segment emerges as a key driver, fueled by the critical need to protect satellite assets and ensure operational continuity. Satellite operators, telecommunication companies, and Earth observation firms heavily rely on space infrastructure, necessitating efficient debris removal solutions to safeguard investments and maintain service reliability.

North America commands a significant share of the market, propelled by the presence of major players like Northrop Grumman and robust government support for the space industry. The region's investments in research, development, and deployment of debris removal systems underscore its leadership in the global market landscape.

The Space Debris Removal Market is dominated by globally established players such as Astroscale, ClearSpace, Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd, Northrop Grumman, and Kall Morris Incorporated. These players leverage their expertise and investments to develop cutting-edge solutions and secure prominent contracts in the space debris removal domain.

Inquiry Before Buying: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Enquiry_Before_BuyingNew.asp?id=179602300

The Space Debris Removal Market is poised for remarkable growth, fueled by advancements in technology, increasing concerns over orbital safety, and growing investments in space exploration. With innovative solutions and strategic collaborations, stakeholders in the market are poised to address the challenges posed by space debris effectively, ensuring the sustainability and longevity of space activities in the years to come.

About MarketsandMarkets™

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MarketsandMarkets™ is a blue ocean alternative in growth consulting and program management, leveraging a man-machine offering to drive supernormal growth for progressive organizations in the B2B space. We have the widest lens on emerging technologies, making us proficient in co-creating supernormal growth for clients.

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[tradermeximas]

Milhares de satélites orbitam o nosso planeta azul, mas enfrentam um grande problema de esgotamento de combustível, que muitas vezes desativa o satélite, mesmo quando as cargas úteis ou os instrumentos ainda estão em boas condições. Este é um desafio que a tecnologia de reabastecimento de satélites em órbita está a tentar superar para prolongar a vida útil dos satélites. O Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) assumiu a liderança nesta iniciativa e está trabalhando na construção, integração e teste de uma pequena espaçonave de demonstração como parte de um projeto de prototipagem de Mobilidade Espacial e Logística (SML) de US$ 25,5 milhões. O projeto é financiado pela Força Espacial dos EUA e liderado pelo contratante principal Astroscale US. A espaçonave, chamada Astroscale Prototype Servicer for Refueling (APS-R), foi projetada para reabastecer outros satélites ou veículos compatíveis enquanto estiver em órbita geoestacionária. “Ficar sem combustível é um problema comum para espaçonaves na órbita da Terra”, disse o engenheiro da equipe do SwRI, Steve Thompson, engenheiro de sistemas do projeto do SwRI. “Quando eles gastam todo o combustível, a missão termina – mesmo que o veículo esteja em excelente estado de saúde. Um veículo de reabastecimento pode prolongar essas missões e podemos obter uma vida útil adicional das naves espaciais que já estão em órbita.” O APS-R operará em órbita geoestacionária ao redor da Terra. A espaçonave seguirá uma órbita circular em sincronia com o período de rotação da Terra de 24 horas. O APS-R transportará o propelente hidrazina de um depósito, que também está em órbita geoestacionária, para a espaçonave que necessita de combustível. O APS-R pode atender qualquer espaçonave equipada com uma porta de reabastecimento compatível. “Recentemente, surgiram outras abordagens para prolongar a vida útil, como um veículo que pode usar seus propulsores para empurrar outra espaçonave para onde ela precisa ir depois de ficar sem combustível”, disse Thompson. “Um veículo de reabastecimento amplia as opções de extensão de vida útil com uma alternativa flexível.” O SwRI construirá o ônibus da nave espacial hospedeira para o APS-R em sua nova nave espacial do sistema espacial e instalação de processamento de carga útil durante os próximos 16 meses. Quando armazenada para lançamento, a espaçonave terá uma dimensão máxima de 24 por 28 por 45 polegadas, e a massa total de lançamento do veículo, incluindo o propelente, será de 437 libras. Assim que o ônibus da espaçonave hospedeira estiver completo, eles integrarão a carga útil fornecida pela Astroscale e realizarão testes ambientais em nível de sistema para preparar o veículo para o lançamento. Espera-se que o SwRI entregue o APS-R pronto para lançamento até 2026.

[spacenutspod]

Space debris is a thing.. It seems whether we explore the Earth or space we leave rubbish in our wake. Thankfully, organisations like Astroscale are trying to combat the problem of debris in space with a new commercial debris inspection demonstration satellite. Named ADRAS-J, the satellite – which is now in orbit – is hunting down an old Japanese upper stage rocket body which was launched in 2009.  It will approach to within 30 metres to study the module from every angle and work out how it can be safely de-orbited by a future mission.  Space debris, or space junk comprises of man made objects orbiting Earth that are no longer needed.  It’s been about 70 years since the launch of Sputnik, the first human made satellite and already, debris in space is a problem and it can be anything from  spent rocket stages to defunct satellites or even fragments that are the results of collisions. Collectively these objects pose a real threat to operational spacecraft due their high speed. Left unchecked, space debris will become a major problem and could even, ultimately, cut off our access to space.  The Sputnik spacecraft stunned the world when it was launched into orbit on Oct. 4th, 1954. Credit: NASA The ADRAS-J mission marks the world’s first attempt to safely approach and survey a piece of space debris through the Rendezvous and Proximity Operations (RPO) technique. Designed to approach a Japanese upper stage rocket body, ADRAS-J aims to showcase the technique while capturing images to assess the object’s movement and condition. ADRAS-J was successfully launched from New Zealand on February 18 and is part of Phase 1 of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency’s plan to deal with space debris. Its name gives recognition to that purpose ‘Active Debris Removal by Astroscale-Japan’. Its initial target, the Japanese H2A upper stage rocket body.  An H-2A rocket, Japan’s primary large-scale launch vehicle. Credit: JAXA The target object lacks any GPS data making it more tricky for the team to rendezvous but perhaps makes it a more realistic target for testing debris analysis activity. Over the next few weeks, the ADRAS-J team will continue to undertake in-orbit tests and checks before it finally, cautiously approaches the object. They will resort to using ground based observational data to approximate its position to make the approach as safe as possible. The initial approach will then be followed up with closer approachers to fully assess the object.  Whilst it is of course great to see some real movement to resolve the issue of space debris, the problem will simply keep growing until efforts are made to stem the increasing amount of debris. On more than one occasion now the occupants to the International Space Station have had to evacuate due to risks over space debris impact. Yet over 300 commercial and government groups have announced that there are plans to launch around half a million more satellites by 2030! That’s almost half a million more objects to track and keep managed so they do not lead to more and more debris. The challenge is hard but is not surmountable, as long as we act now. Source : Astroscale Successfully Launches World’s First Debris Inspection Spacecraft, ADRAS-J The post Astroscale’s Satellite is Now Chasing Down a Real Piece of Space Debris appeared first on Universe Today.

#space #astronomy #news #science

[h1p3rn0v4]

La sonda espacial fue lanzada desde Nueva Zelanda este domingo. Astroscale confirmó que todo salió según ha esperado. El equipo «ha establecido contacto con éxito… y está listo para iniciar las operaciones», dijo el director del proyecto, Eijiro Atarashi, en un comunicado.

[mrm101]

Update: Launch successful at 14:52UT, ADRAS-J was deployed from KS third stage at ~15:57UT or ~T+01:04:39

Launching today will be Rocket Labs 44th Electron Rocket from LC-1B New Zealand. It is of interest because it will be launching the Japanese Astroscale ADRAS-J (Active Debris Removal by AstroScale Japan), this satellite will approach and rendezvous with a specific item of space junk, as in an uncooperative and dead piece of space junk, no easy task. The target is a spent second stage of a Mitsubishi H2 A-202 (F15) which launched Japan's GOSAT environmental monitoring satellite back in January 2009. The stage has been orbiting in a 613 x 641km orbit at 98º ever since. ADRAS-J will first approach using ground tracking data then use various optical and LiDAR (laser imaging) sensors to approach from behind the stage using a cork screw like trajectory, like an aircraft doing a series of rolls. Once it has rendezvoused it will orbit around the stage characterising its condition and spin rate. It will then approach within metres and station keep for a while before departing. This will demonstrate the technology fro for missions in which the new satellite can attach to the junk and pull it out of orbit using a retro burn. Or alternatively refuel or repair satellites in orbit. Pics & Patches: Rocket Lab/Astroscale.

#Elecron(44) ADRAS-J launch #Youtube

[news-locus]

Astroscale reveals concept of operations for its in-orbit refueling vehicle

[y2fear]

Astroscale takes the wraps off its $25M orbital refueling craft for Space Force

[thxnews]

UK Pioneers Space Debris Removal Initiatives

  Introduction

Space, an integral part of our daily lives, faces a rising challenge that threatens the reliability of essential services. The specter of space debris looms large, with the potential to disrupt everything from television broadcasts to weather forecasts and online banking. The UK government is taking proactive measures to address this issue, investing in national capabilities and international cooperation to safeguard our vital satellite infrastructure.  

The Scale of the Debris Challenge

The Hidden Danger in Orbit Statistical models paint a sobering picture, estimating approximately one million fragments of space debris ranging from 1 cm to 10 cm in size. Shockingly, there are 130 million more minuscule pieces, measuring between 1 mm and 1 cm, orbiting Earth. Among these, a mere 36,500 objects larger than 10 cm are actively tracked, with 31,010 cataloged. Among these relics are old satellites, discarded rocket components, and remnants of past collisions.  

Risk to Active Satellites

Protecting Earth's Vital Services Active satellites, the cornerstone of essential services on Earth, are in constant peril, facing the potential for collisions with both other satellites and the formidable volume of human-made space debris. In response to this challenge, the UK government has adopted a multifaceted approach. This comprehensive approach encompasses regulation, sustainability standards development, technological innovations, and debris removal missions. Moreover, it includes robust surveillance and tracking services that provide timely warnings for satellites in imminent danger, as well as alerts for potential debris impacts on UK territory.  

UK Commitment to Tackling Space Debris

A Pledge to Secure Space Sustainability In alignment with the National Space Strategy, the UK is intensifying its efforts towards space sustainability. Notably, two Active Debris Removal Phase B mission studies were awarded to Astroscale and ClearSpace in September 2022, totaling £4 million. These studies will not only provide valuable insights but also guide the UK Space Agency in selecting a mission concept. This concept will ultimately culminate in a demonstration of the nation's capability to rendezvous, dock with, and deorbit two defunct UK satellites by 2026.  

Astroscale: Securing Space Sustainability

Pioneering the Fight Against Debris A decade ago, Astroscale's CEO and Founder, Nobu Okada, made a commitment to resolve the space debris crisis by the end of 2020. Today, over 500 individuals, including engineers, mission operators, project managers, and support staff, have joined Nobu's quest across the UK, France, Israel, the USA, and Japan. Astroscale is at the forefront of in-orbit servicing, offering innovative solutions ranging from satellite management to large debris removal, refueling, and recycling. Astroscale is pioneering a safer space environment for future generations. The UK Space Agency is providing funding to Astroscale for further development of technology to remove inactive satellites from Low Earth Orbit (LEO). The Cleaning Outer Space Mission through Innovative Capture (COSMIC) will leverage Astroscale's Rendezvous and Proximity Operations (RPO) and robotic debris capture capabilities to eliminate two defunct UK satellites orbiting Earth by 2026.  

ClearSpace: Revolutionizing Space Missions

Forging a Sustainable Space Frontier Established in 2018, ClearSpace is on a mission to revolutionize space missions. Moreover, with dynamic engineering teams spread across offices in Switzerland, the UK, Germany, Luxembourg, and the United States, ClearSpace is developing technologies spanning in-orbit servicing applications. These applications encompass disposal, transport, inspection, assembly, manufacturing, repair, and recycling. Furthermore, ClearSpace aims to usher in a new era of sustainable space operations and foster a circular space economy. In addition, the UK Space Agency has chosen ClearSpace to develop an Active Debris Removal mission capable of eliminating multiple hazardous objects from space. The mission, known as the Clearing of the LEO Environment with Active Removal (CLEAR), will advance key technology building blocks and catalyze commercially viable disposal services.  

What Else Are We Doing About Space Sustainability?

A Holistic Approach to Space Preservation The UK's approach to space sustainability extends beyond debris removal and in-orbit servicing. The country is a significant investor in the ClearSpace-1 mission through the European Space Agency, aimed at removing a debris fragment from orbit in 2026. Additionally, the UK is leading a European Space Agency space weather monitoring mission, Vigil.  

Space Surveillance and Tracking

Safeguarding Satellites through Vigilance The UK Space Agency collaborates closely with the Ministry of Defence to develop a national space observation and monitoring capability. Ground-based sensor data helps protect satellites from collisions, secure critical national infrastructure, and support the thriving satellite industry. The UK Space Operations Centre provides observation and monitoring information to government users, launching a Space Surveillance and tracking service for UK-licensed satellite operators under the "Monitor your Satellites" project. This service, currently in public beta, monitors over 90% of satellites with active licenses in the UK, offering collision warnings when necessary.  

Regulation and Standards

Shaping a Responsible Space Environment Safe, secure, and sustainable space practices require a set of agreed-upon rules, regulations, and guidance. These measures aim to maximize access to space while minimizing environmental burden, similar to practices in terrestrial domains like maritime, land, and air. The UK recently initiated a Consultation on Orbital Liabilities, Insurance, Charging, and Space Sustainability. This comprehensive effort addresses liability, insurance, and charging policies, promoting the adoption of sustainable practices. The consultation also explores long-term sustainability planning and the development of sustainability principles through the Earth∞Space Sustainability Initiative.  

International Cooperation

A Unified Approach to a Global Frontier Space knows no borders, emphasizing the need for effective national and international collaboration to ensure coherence and alignment. The primary multilateral forum for international engagement is the UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, where the UK plays a strong role in driving forward key space and sustainability issues. The UK also funds initiatives through the UN Office of Outer Space Affairs to promote understanding and adoption of the Long-Term Sustainability Guidelines, contributing to broader capacity building in space regulation. In this new era of space exploration, the UK stands as a beacon of innovation and progress in space sustainability. These bold and pioneering efforts hold the promise of creating a cleaner and more secure space environment for future generations. As humanity embarks on its journey deeper into the cosmos, it is crucial to embrace this opportunity for responsible space stewardship. Doing so ensures a lasting legacy of benefits for generations to come.   Sources: THX News & UK Space Agency. Read the full article

#AstroscaleMission #ClearSpaceInitiative #DebrisRemovalTechnology #Earth∞SpaceSustainability #InternationalSpaceCooperation #SpaceDebris #SpaceRegulationStandards #SpaceSurveillanceUK #SpaceSustainability #UKSpaceAgency