Tokyo-based Orbital Lasers and Bengaluru-based space-tech startup InspeCity have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to collaborate on advanced solutions for space for tackling the growing issue of space debris, the companies said in a joint news release.
The partnership will combine Orbital Lasers' detumbling laser systems with InspeCity's VEDA platform (Vehicle for Life Extension and Deorbiting Activities. The VEDA platform is designed to provide satellite servicing, including life extension and deorbiting capabilities. By combining their technologies, the companies plan to develop efficient, scalable systems for satellite servicing and debris removal in both Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO).
According to the European Space Agency (ESA), there are currently over 36,000 pieces of debris larger than 10 centimeters and 1 million pieces between 1 and 10 centimeters orbiting the Earth. These objects, remnants of defunct satellites, spent rocket stages, and other fragments, travel at speeds of up to 28,000 kilometers per hour, posing a severe risk to operational satellites and manned missions.
The problem is particularly acute in Low Earth Orbit (LEO), where satellite constellations for communication and Earth observation are rapidly increasing. Experts warn that without effective debris mitigation, collisions could lead to a cascade effect, known as Kessler Syndrome, making certain orbits unusable.
Orbital Lasers is developing a system that uses lasers to stabilize and manipulate the rotation of debris by vaporizing its surface, enabling safer removal. The company plans to demonstrate its laser technology in orbit by 2027 for the commercial users. This system will be mounted on InspeCity's satellite. InspeCity, headquartered in Bengaluru, specializes in propulsion systems, robotics, and Rendezvous, Proximity Operations, and Docking (RPOD) technologies.
"As satellite constellations grow exponentially, effective debris management and servicing are more critical than ever. This partnership represents a step forward for sustainable space practices," Ashish Sharma, CEO of InspeCity stated in the release.
The partnership aims to tap into the in-orbit services market, projected to exceed $14.3 billion by 2031, driven by the demand for satellite life extension and debris mitigation solutions.
"This MoU with InspeCity reflects our shared commitment to sustainable practices in space. By combining our technologies, we aim to create solutions that protect space operations and enable industry growth," said Takuya Mori, CEO of Orbital Lasers.
With a growing number of public and private players launching satellite constellations, the need for debris management and satellite servicing is critical for the optimum utilization of orbits and extending the life expectancy of the satellites. There are more than 100 companies, mainly startups working in the sector, according to a Reuters report.
More and more companies and nations are are joining hands to exploit the commercial opportunity in in space satellite servicing and deorbiting. SpaceX had won an $843 million contract to construct a spacecraft for safely deorbiting the International Space Station. Airbus and Astroscale also announced a partnership to expand its in-orbit servicing and debris removal. Japanese startup EX-Fusion earlier this year had announced their collaboration with EOS Space systems to explore the use of fusion- focussed lasers for removing space junk.
