#clearspace

[northcarolinaland]

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[scifi4wifi]

Clearspace-1 Space Junk Collector Target Hit by Space Junk

Boy, some news days in the Sci-Fi realm are slow, but as the Boss Man at SCIFI.radio says, you can’t make this stuff up. A target for the European Space Agency’s ClearSpace-1 mission couldn’t wait for garbage collection day in the agency’s planned 2026 test mission. It got clobbered by another piece of space debris, rending it into pieces. The 250 lb rocket adapter, left over from a 2013 Vega…

[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

[starangela]

Grian in his latest video: What Doing?

(Made me think of this ClearSpace What Doin advert)

[spacetimewithstuartgary]

Managing space debris through space law

It's becoming increasingly crowded in the orbits around Earth that are popular for space travel. And that's not just due to satellites—there's also more waste material, which is compromising safety. Ph.D. candidate Zhuang Tian is conducting research into the legal aspects of discarded space equipment. Whoever leaves debris behind should take responsibility and clean it up.

In the near future, probes with robotic arms will be hovering in orbit. The arms will have four metal tentacles spread out like a spider's legs, ready to catch a discarded satellite where the probes maneuver minutely. It's one of the techniques the company ClearSpace is currently simulating—only on Earth for the time being.

Active debris removal

With his specialization in space law, legal expert Zhuang Tian is following these developments closely. He will shortly be defending his Ph.D. thesis on the legal aspects of space debris disposal. The specific focus of his research is how companies like ClearSpace and the Japanese company Astroscale are planning on actively removing debris, because there is another option: space equipment that removes itself after use by burning into the atmosphere. But as Tian explains, current satellites can't yet do that, hence the need for a collection service provided by private companies.

"Space agencies such as ESA could encourage the development of active debris removal (ADR) missions and their exploitation," he says.

Antisocial campers

As Tian explains following his Ph.D. research, space law is lagging behind, and so it's essential that clear rules and international agreements are put in place. He compares the behavior of countries that are the registered owners of discarded satellites with that of antisocial campers.

"You can compare it to a campsite littered with cans and plastic bottles. Of course, you could solve the problem technically by constantly removing the waste. But what works better is putting rules in place that inform campers about responsible behavior. I started investigating how space law encourages the countries and space agencies in question to clean up their space debris. Because even now, it's not clear to the states concerned that they're obliged to do this."

An international mechanism

Tian has encountered legal hurdles along the way. From a legal perspective, it appears to be risky for a state to clean up another state's scrap. Space equipment is the property of the state of registration, even if it has since been discarded. Those who start the cleanup process run the risk of a country, company or government organization holding the cleaner liable for damage to property.

"So currently, cleanup missions only focus on waste that is owned—or is at least allowed to be owned—by the cleaner," explains Tian. "There needs to be an international mechanism that makes it easier for countries and space agencies to request and grant permission."

A double-edged sword

Tian explains that another factor at play is that removal technology—such as the ClearSpace tentacles—have a dual-use nature. Every part of a spacecraft could potentially be used as a weapon in space, even if that was never the intention when it was designed. A peaceful clean-up process could cause misunderstandings.

Tian adds, "If you're able to grab space debris, you're also able to grab another vehicle or deliberately collide with it. If a country removes a discarded object that belongs to another state, that state might perceive it as a hostile act—even if the intentions were good."

Transparency surrounding missions

Tian examined the rules, guidelines and laws for responsible behavior that would prevent space debris removal from being perceived as a threat. He says, "Addressing concerns is more effective than setting technical requirements dictating that objects may not be used for war purposes. After all, in space you could use any piece of equipment for military purposes. That's why I also recommend transparency surrounding space missions."

An international hotline

He is pinning his hopes on soft law—instruments that are not legally binding and yet serve as guidelines for behavior and practices in space. While they are voluntary, they can make up for the gaps in the prescriptive articles found in space treaties. He advocates international guidelines for active space debris removal. He also says that countries could increase their commitment to multilateral and unilateral agreements. This would put pressure on commitments made by states to do something about the debris. The United Nations could make a more active effort to agree on rules for clarity and safety in the event of dual use.

It's also important that countries coordinate with each other on this—perhaps by setting up an international hotline that countries can use to register spacecraft in the event of imminent collisions.

Future generations

Tian wants to expand the law governing space debris removal, and in the future hopes to get a ticket for a trip into space if it's affordable. By then, the chance of collisions with space debris should have decreased.

"I'm positive about that—there's a strong common awareness about sustainable use of space in the future. That will also benefit future generations, as space travel is becoming increasingly important in our daily lives."

[fishgut]

Collision frequency of artificial satellites: The creation of a debris belt Donald J. Kessler, Burton G. Cour-Palais First published: 1 June 1978 https://doi.org/10.1029/JA083iA06p02637 Citations: 564 PDFPDF Tools Share Abstract

As the number of artificial satellites in earth orbit increases, the probability of collisions between satellites also increases. Satellite collisions would produce orbiting fragments, each of which would increase the probability of further collisions, leading to the growth of a belt of debris around the earth. This process parallels certain theories concerning the growth of the asteroid belt. The debris flux in such an earth-orbiting belt could exceed the natural meteoroid flux, affecting future spacecraft designs. A mathematical model was used to predict the rate at which such a belt might form. Under certain conditions the belt could begin to form within this century and could be a significant problem during the next century. The possibility that numerous unobserved fragments already exist from spacecraft explosions would decrease this time interval. However, early implementation of specialized launch constraints and operational procedures could significantly delay the formation of the belt.

--

But if we make it to Mars and then accidentally contaminate the planet with our literal shit, it might be harder to answer this question. How would we know if the life we find on Mars is truly Martian, or something that’s come from Earth? And if our microbes from Earth take a liking to Mars and spread, there may be no way to undo that.

The UN Outer Space Treaty — signed in 1967, two years before the Apollo 11 landing — stipulates that member states “shall avoid harmful contamination of space and celestial bodies.” That may be difficult if we get to Mars because wherever we go, our fecal matter goes too. Thinking about poop on the moon helps us think about a possible origin of life on Earth

As new missions to the moon are planned, we need to think carefully about the need to preserve the artifacts left at the Apollo landing sites. NPR’s Nell Greenfieldboyce recently reported that just landing within 100 meters of an Apollo site could potentially damage it.

Protecting the history of human exploration on the moon also means protecting the garbage — its historic value is immense, but so is its scientific value. We need to preserve these sites so scientists can return to them and take samples.

--

The European-built Cupola was added to the International Space Station in 2010 and continues to provide the best room with a view anywhere.

In addition to serving as an observation and work area when the crew operates the Station’s robotic arms, it also provides excellent views of Earth, celestial objects and visiting vehicles.

Its fused-silica and borosilicate-glass windows, however, sometime suffer from impacts by tiny artificial objects: space debris.

ESA astronaut Tim Peake took this photo from inside Cupola last month, showing a 7 mm-diameter circular chip gouged out by the impact from a tiny piece of space debris, possibly a paint flake or small metal fragment no bigger than a few thousandths of a millimetre across. The background just shows the inky blackness of space.

--

Space debris targeted for orbital cleanup has been hit, possibly by other space debris

The payload adaptor from a 2013 launch by the European Space Agency has been fragmented by a collision in orbit, officials say

In May, the ESA announced it would be the target of the ClearSpace-1 mission, an “active debris removal mission” designed to fly to VESPA, grab it, and then burn up during reentry, destroying both itself and the space junk. The plan was to launch as early as the first half of 2026.

Now that mission is in doubt. “On 10 August 2023, ESA’s Space Debris Office was informed by the United States 18th Space Defense Squadron that new objects have been detected in the vicinity of (the) payload adapter,” the space agency said in a press release on Tuesday.

[allthenews808]

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[heryouthdreamland]

Video 6.Clean space, fresh energy#ClearSpace #EnergyFlow #FengShuiSellin...

[123567-9qaaq9]

Satellite Docking System Market | BIS Research  

A Satellite Docking System is a mechanism that enables two spacecrafts such as space stations to approach, align and physically connect in space. This system typically includes guidance, navigation and control (GNC Systems), docking parts, latching mechanisms and communication interferences. 

The Global Satellite Docking System Market is estimated to reach $1,011.34 million in 2032 from $40.3 million in 2021, at a growth rate of 31.3% during the forecast period 2022-2032. 

Satellite Docking System Overview 

A Satellite Docking System is a sophisticated technology designed to enable the safe and precise connection of two spacecraft in orbit

The Key Components included are as follows GNC- Systems, Docking Mechanism 

Satellite Docking System Applications 

Satellite Servicing : Repairing, refueling, or upgrading satellites to extend their operational lifespan.

Space Stations Operations: Docking spacecraft like cargo and crew vehicles with space stations

Orbital Assembly: Constructing and assembling large space structures, such as future space habitats.

Market Segmentation 

By Service Type 

By End Users 

By Spacecraft Type 

By Region 

Request a Free Sample Report on the Satellite Docking System Market

Demand Drivers

Satellite Servicing & Life Extension – Demand for in-orbit maintenance, refueling, and repairs to extend satellite lifespan.

Space Station Support – Continuous crew and cargo resupply missions to space stations like the ISS and upcoming space habitats.

Orbital Refueling & Resource Utilization – Need for in-space fuel transfer to reduce dependency on Earth-launched propellant.

Modular Spacecraft & Orbital Assembly – Increasing focus on assembling large structures in space, such as space telescopes and habitats.

Commercial Space Exploration – Expanding private sector involvement in space tourism, lunar missions, and deep-space exploration.

Key Players

Company Type 1: Satellite Docking System Supplier

• Altius Space Machines, Inc.

• Astroscale Holdings, Inc.

• ClearSpace

• Lockheed Martin Corporation

Company Type 2: Enabling Solution Providers

• D-Orbit SpA

• High Earth Orbit Robotics

• LMO

• Maxar Technologies

Get More Market Insights on our Aerospace Vertical Page 

Conclusion

The Satellite Docking System is a crucial technology that enhances the sustainability and efficiency of space operations. It enables in-orbit satellite servicing, refueling, modular assembly, and space station support, significantly reducing costs and extending mission lifespans.

With advancements in autonomous navigation, AI-driven control, and robotic docking, the future of satellite docking systems is becoming increasingly reliable and precise.

As space exploration and commercialization continue to expand, the demand for advanced docking mechanisms will grow, supporting long-term space missions, orbital construction, and deep-space exploration. By fostering innovation in docking technology, we move closer to a sustainable and interconnected space infrastructure, paving the way for future space habitats, interplanetary travel, and beyond.

[spacenutspod]

Paris, France (SPX) Feb 24, 2025 ClearSpace has commenced the consolidation phase of its GEO Life Extension Mission. Backed by the Government of Luxembourg and supported by an ESA contract under the Luxembourg National Space Programme LuxIMPULSE, which is implemented by the Luxembourg Space Agency, this initiative represents a major operational milestone. The mission underscores ClearSpace's steadfast commitment to sustai

[nawapon17]

Astroscale and Clearspace reach development milestone for dual-satellite deorbit mission - SpaceNews

[raybittechnologies]

Revolutionary Space Robotics: The AI-Driven Future of Space Missions

Space exploration has been one of the biggest challenges for human beings. Now, as technology is growing up, robots are at the helm in exploring unknown territories. From Mars rovers to robotic arms at space stations, space robotics is revolutionizing methods of studying the cosmos while making missions safer, cheaper, and more efficient.

What Is Space Robotics?

Space robotics concerns the development and use of robots to support or replace humans in space missions. The robotic systems can be either autonomous or teleoperated for accomplishing different tasks in environments that are impossible or too dangerous or expensive for astronauts. Because space provides extreme conditions like high radiation, low gravity, and harsh temperatures, robots become an essential element in the process of exploring planets, constructing space stations, repairing satellites, and even cleaning up space debris.

Key Applications of Space Robotics

1.Planetary Exploration Rovers

The most visible example of space robotics is the planetary rover. These vehicles rove and analyze the surfaces of planets, collect samples, and send back data to Earth. Examples include the NASA Perseverance Rover, which is currently studying the geology of Mars and searching for evidence of past life; China’s Zhurong Rover, which is determining the climate and surface composition of Mars.

2. Robotic Arms and Manipulators

Robotics arms are considered an essential component in space stations and spacecrafts for various construction, repair, and maintenance activities. Some of the most popular arms include:

Canadarm2 (used by the International Space Station for capturing cargo spacecraft as well as assisting astronauts)

The European Robotic Arm (ERA), which helps to attach and repair into space.

3. Autonomous Spacecraft and Landers

Robotic landers and probes are used to explore deep space and planetary surfaces. These systems operate independently, collecting vital data. Examples include:

NASA’s OSIRIS-REx, which successfully retrieved samples from the asteroid Bennu.

One was India’s Chandrayaan-3, that landed on the Moon and relayed vital information about its surface.

4. Satellite Servicing and Space Debris Cleanup

As the number of satellites in orbit around Earth continues to increase, with thousands already up there, concerns about maintenance and debris cleanup are rising. Defunct satellites can be captured and repaired or removed safely by developing robotic systems. ESA’s e.Deorbit and ClearSpace-1 missions use robotic arms and automated systems to tackle this increasing problem.

5. Human Contingent in Space Missions

Space robots not only work on their own but also assist astronauts. Humanoid robots and AI assistants are capable of performing various kinds of labor. Some of the examples are:

NASA’s Robonaut: A humanoid robot capable of working in spacecraft.

Russia’s FEDOR is a humanoid, capable of piloting a spacecraft and doing maintenance work.

Challenges in Space Robotics

Despite all these advantages, space robots do face severe challenges:

Space Condition – Radiation, microgravity, and extreme temperature.

Energy Limitations: Most rely on solar power, which can be quite inconsistent in deep space.

Complex Autonomy –11Robots should make decisions instantly without human help.

The Future of Space Robotics

Advances in AI, robotics, and automation will define the future of space exploration as a high dependence on robotic systems. Developing self-repairing robots, AI-driven mission planning, and swarms of robotic explorers working together to achieve complex tasks is also part of research activities. The space robotics sector will take a leading role in defining the future of interplanetary exploration with the increased ambitions of Mars, Moon, and other interplanetary missions.

Conclusion

Space robotics has changed the very way of exploration of space into missions that are safer, smarter, and efficient. These machines, intelligent, will enable humans to explore planets and do impossible things that risk humans’ lives. From getting data on other worlds to supporting astronauts in space, robots have been the primary components of any space mission to be carried out in the near future.

As we look to the Moon, Mars, and beyond, space robots will continue to play a critical role in preparing for human exploration. Their capabilities are expanding the boundaries of what’s possible, bringing us closer to understanding the universe and enabling future space travel

[stevecarell600]

Space Debris Monitoring And Removal Market Size, Share, Current Insights Analysis by 2032

The global space debris monitoring and removal market size was valued at USD 866.4 million in 2021. The market is projected to grow from USD 942.3 million in 2022 to USD 1,527.7 million by 2029, exhibiting a CAGR of 7.15% during the forecast period.

This information is provided by Fortune Business Insights, in its report titled, “Space Debris Monitoring and Removal Market, 2022-2029.”

Informational Source:

Report Coverage:

The report presents a systematic study of the market segments and thorough analysis of the market overview. A thoughtful evaluation of the current market trends as well as future opportunities is offered in the report. Moreover, it presents an exhaustive analysis of the regional insights and how they help to form the space debris monitoring and removal market growth.

List of Key Players Mentioned in the Report:

Airbus S.A.S (Netherlands)

Astroscale (Netherlands)

ClearSpace (Switzerland)

Electro Optic Systems (Australia)

Lockheed Martin Corporation (U.S.)

Northrop Grumman Corporation (U.S.)

Orbit Guardians (U.S.)

Obruta (Canada)

Share my space (France)

Voyager Space Holdings Inc. (U.S.)

Segments:

Space Debris Removal Segment to Grow at a Greater CAGR Due to Rising Debris Removal Missions by Numerous Space Agencies

Based on application, the market is bifurcated into space debris monitoring and space debris removal. The space debris removal segment is anticipated to show significant growth during the forecast period due to rising development of initiatives by space agencies for the removal of space debris.

1mm to 1cm Debris Size Segment to Dominate Market Owing to Surge in Space Debris

Based on debris size range, the market is segmented into 1mm to 1cm debris size, 1cm to 10cm debris size, and greater than 10cm. The 1mm to 1cm debris size segment dominated the market in 2020 owing to an upsurge in rocket bodies and minor fragments from satellite launches across the world.

Increase in Space Presentation in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Orbit May Spur Growth of the Segment

Based on orbit type, the market is divided into Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO). The Low Earth Orbit (LEO) segment is projected to grow at a higher CAGR during the forecast period.

Commericial Segment to be a Quicker Growing Segement and Boosts Market Growth

Based on end use, the market is divided into commercial and defense.

The commercial segment is projected to grow at a higher CAGR during the forecast period due to rising number of private companies in space debris monitoring and removal from the Earth’s orbit.

The global market is segmented based on region into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Rest of the World.

Drivers and Restraints:

Growing Number of Satellite Launches and Space Exploration Activities to Augment Demand

The abrupt increase in demand for network and communication and network-based services across the world has empowered space launches over the past few years. The Starlink program presented by SpaceX gained sanction from the U.S. Federal Communication Commission (FCC) to unveil a 12000 startling small satellite for the internet constellation. However, the company is commencing to organize a spectrum to add a 30000 startling satellite in future.

Regional Insights:

North America to Lead Backed by Presence of Leading Players

North America is projected to hold the biggest space debris monitoring and removal market share and was valued at USD 268.6 million in 2021. It is predicted to continue its domination during the forecast period, 2022-2029. The U.S. has the biggest space-based companies in comparison with any European and Asian nations.

The European market is estimated to develop at a substantial growth rate during the forecast period. The existence of the European Space Agency (ESA) and additional space-based establishments plays an important role in the space debris monitoring and removal activity from the orbit.

Asia Pacific is projected to make progress at a colossal CAGR during the forecast period. The growth can be credited to the growing demand for space situational consciousness abilities from China, India, and Japan.

Competitive Landspace:

Key Players Sign Significant Contracts to Make Remarkable Changes in the Market

The players operating in the market often employ numerous tactics that will aid the market growth and product demand. Among the pool of strategies, one such notable strategy to expand the business prospect is signing multimillion contracts with government bodies and securing a profitable revenue for their own company.

Key Industry Development:

Jan 2022: Northrop Grumman Corporation signed a contract with the U.S. Space Force to create a radar to track active satellites and debris in high orbits. The agreement is worth USD 341 million. Northrop's radar will be situated in the Indo-Pacific region and will be among the three intended ground-based radar locations for the DARC program. The corporation has plans until September 2025 to develop a radar prototype.

[deandacosta]

clearspace

http://dlvr.it/TDQH93

[allthenews808]

ClearSpace completes second phase of UK debris-removal mission - SpaceNews || #JunkRemovalNews Courtesy of Any Kine Junk LLC #JunkRemovalOahu Click Here - Junk Removal for Honolulu Hawaii Covering all of Oahu Text or Call (808)840-7026 for a FREE Estimate http://dlvr.it/TLV1Bt