Japan’s Astroscale, a company specializing in on-orbit servicing and space debris removal, has successfully launched a small satellite called ADRAS-J (Active Debris Removal by Astroscale-Japan) to inspect and monitor a discarded rocket body in orbit. The satellite was launched atop a Rocket Lab Electron from New Zealand’s Mahia Peninsula.
The ADRAS-J satellite is part of the Japanese space agency’s Commercial Removal of Debris Demonstration program and aims to develop techniques for removing space debris. Its primary objective is to approach and monitor the spent upper-stage rocket of an H-2A rocket that was launched in January 2009. This mission will lay the groundwork for a future mission to deorbit the rocket stage, which is tentatively scheduled for 2026.
The satellite was deployed 64 minutes into flight and will use ground-based observation data initially to close in on the derelict rocket body. It is equipped with visual and infrared cameras, LiDAR sensors, and on-board sensors to complete the rendezvous. Once in close proximity, it will assess the rocket body’s condition and determine if it is tumbling. However, it will not attempt to latch onto the rocket.
Taking images in space is already a challenging task, but doing so with an unprepared object that does not provide any location data and is moving at approximately 7.5 kilometers per second is extremely difficult. Nobu Okada, the founder and CEO of Astroscale, emphasized the complexity of this operation, stating that it is one of the most challenging capabilities necessary for on-orbit services.
Astroscale, founded in 2013, aims to offer on-orbit servicing and space debris removal services. The company is headquartered in Japan and has subsidiaries in the United Kingdom, the United States, France, and Israel.
This successful launch marks an important milestone in the ongoing efforts to address the growing problem of space debris. As more satellites and rockets are launched into space, the risk of collisions and the creation of more debris increases. Astroscale’s mission to develop techniques for removing space debris is crucial in ensuring the long-term sustainability of space activities.
The ADRAS-J satellite’s ability to approach and monitor a discarded rocket body demonstrates the advancements in technology and the dedication of organizations like Astroscale to tackle this issue. By understanding the condition and behavior of space debris, future missions can be planned to safely remove these objects from orbit, reducing the risk of collisions and potential damage to operational satellites.
As space exploration and satellite deployments continue to expand, it is essential that measures are taken to mitigate the impact of space debris. Astroscale’s work in on-orbit servicing and space debris removal is a significant step towards a cleaner and safer space environment. With their expertise and innovative solutions, they are paving the way for a more sustainable future in space exploration.