Japanese Satellite Launched to Monitor Space Junk for Future Debris Removal Missions
In a groundbreaking mission, a Japanese satellite called ADRAS-J has been launched by Rocket Lab to monitor a piece of space junk. The purpose of this mission is to gather crucial data that will aid in future efforts to reduce orbital debris. The 150 kg satellite was launched from Rocket Lab’s Launch Complex 1 in New Zealand on February 18, marking an important step in space exploration and debris removal.
The specific target of the ADRAS-J satellite is an old HII-A rocket body, which was originally used to launch the GOSAT Earth observation satellite. This derelict rocket stage measures approximately 11 meters long and four meters in diameter, making it a significant piece of space debris. The mission aims to approach, characterize, and survey the state of this existing debris, which has never been attempted before.
While similar missions have taken place in the past, such as Northrop Grumman’s Mission Extension Vehicle attaching itself to the Intelsat 901 satellite in 2020, and cosmonauts rescuing the derelict Salyut 7 in 1985, this mission by ADRAS-J is unique. It is the first attempt to approach and study a piece of debris without any crew involvement. Instead, the satellite will rely on ground-based observations to determine the position of the HII-A upper stage.
Astroscale Japan, the company behind the ADRAS-J spacecraft, has described the rocket stage as “an unprepared object.” Unlike other satellites or spacecraft, it does not provide GPS or similar data, making the Rendezvous and Proximity Operations (RPO) challenging. This added complexity required meticulous planning and calculations by the Astroscale Japan Mission Operations team in Tokyo.
One of the challenges faced by Rocket Lab was the limited amount of time they had to prepare for the launch. Normally, they have months to determine the launch parameters, such as the perigee, apogee, and inclination. However, in this case, Astroscale Japan could only provide the necessary information 20 days before the launch. Despite this time constraint, Rocket Lab successfully calculated the launch parameters and executed the mission flawlessly.
Now that the ADRAS-J satellite has made contact with the spacecraft, it will undergo a series of in-orbit tests before beginning the rendezvous process with the derelict rocket stage. The satellite will utilize cameras and sensors to document the state of the debris, providing valuable insights for future assisted deorbit methods.
The significance of this mission is further highlighted by its selection for Phase 1 of the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency’s (JAXA) Commercial Removal of Debris Demonstration program. ADRAS-J was designed, manufactured, tested, and operated by Astroscale Japan, who also procured the launch operator. This demonstrates Japan’s commitment to addressing the growing issue of space debris and their dedication to finding innovative solutions.
In conclusion, the launch of the ADRAS-J satellite marks a significant milestone in space exploration and debris removal. By monitoring a piece of space junk and gathering crucial data, this mission paves the way for future efforts to reduce orbital debris. With Astroscale Japan at the forefront of this groundbreaking mission, Japan’s commitment to addressing the challenges posed by space debris is evident. As we venture further into space, it is essential that we prioritize the sustainability of our orbital environment, and missions like ADRAS-J are crucial steps in that direction.