As the growing problem of space debris threatens satellite operations and future space missions, Japan and India are forging innovative partnerships to tackle this challenge. In a recent collaboration, Japanese startup Orbital Lasers and Indian robotics company InspeCity announced plans to explore using laser-equipped satellites to deorbit defunct spacecraft and reduce orbital congestion. This partnership highlights the increasing need for space sustainability solutions amid the rapid expansion of satellite constellations.

The project involves using laser energy to stabilize and slow down rotating debris by vaporizing parts of its surface. This process allows a servicing spacecraft to rendezvous with the debris more efficiently, facilitating its safe removal. The system, under development by Orbital Lasers, is expected to be demonstrated by 2027, marking a significant step toward commercially viable space debris mitigation technologies.

Space Debris: A Growing Threat

The urgency surrounding this issue is undeniable. According to the European Space Agency (ESA), over 36,000 pieces of space debris larger than 10 cm are currently tracked in Earth’s orbit, while millions of smaller fragments pose serious risks to active satellites and spacecraft. These fragments, traveling at speeds of up to 28,000 km/h, can cause catastrophic damage even in minor collisions.

The need for intervention was underscored by the United Nations in October 2023, which called for immediate global action to monitor and manage low Earth orbit (LEO) congestion. The rise of commercial mega-constellations, like SpaceX’s Starlink and Amazon’s Project Kuiper, has exacerbated the problem, making LEO a crowded and hazardous environment.

Japan-India Space Partnerships on the Rise

The Orbital Lasers-InspeCity collaboration is part of a broader trend of Japan-India commercial partnerships in the space sector. Both nations have been leveraging their technological strengths and aligning national policies to foster innovation:

1. LUPEX Mission: A joint Lunar Polar Exploration mission set to launch as early as 2026 aims to explore water resources on the Moon’s south pole.
2. Skyroot and HEX20: Indian rocket maker Skyroot and satellite builder HEX20 are working with Japanese moon exploration firm ispace on a lunar orbiter mission.
3. Satellite Data for Agriculture and Disaster Management: Japanese satellite solutions are already aiding India in critical fields like agriculture and natural disaster monitoring.

This growing cooperation stems from complementary strengths. Japan brings advanced satellite technology and robotics expertise, while India’s Make in India policy provides a foundation for cost-effective, locally produced solutions.

Similar Initiatives Around the World

While Japan and India are advancing laser-based solutions, other players are exploring alternative technologies for space debris removal:

• Astroscale (Japan): A leader in debris mitigation, Astroscale uses magnetic docking systems to capture defunct satellites and ensure their safe deorbit.
• ClearSpace (Switzerland): Backed by the ESA, ClearSpace is developing robotic spacecraft capable of grabbing and removing space junk using mechanical arms.
• Northrop Grumman (USA): The company’s Mission Extension Vehicle (MEV) is designed to attach to aging satellites, extending their lifespan and delaying their transformation into debris.

These efforts reflect the global realization that space sustainability is essential for the future of space exploration, communication, and commerce.

Key Challenges and Future Outlook

Despite promising technologies, challenges remain. Regulatory approvals, international collaboration, and financing for debris removal systems must be streamlined. Additionally, scaling these solutions to address the growing debris problem will require substantial investments and supportive policies.

The Japan-India initiative offers a pragmatic approach by combining cutting-edge technology with commercial collaboration. As laser-based solutions advance toward real-world deployment, this partnership could position both nations as leaders in the space debris mitigation market, which is expected to grow significantly in the coming decade.

The partnership between Orbital Lasers and InspeCity represents a crucial step in addressing the escalating threat of orbital congestion. By focusing on innovative, laser-based solutions, Japan and India are not only mitigating a pressing issue but also strengthening their foothold in the global space industry. With space becoming increasingly crowded, collaborations like these offer a beacon of hope for ensuring safe and sustainable access to Earth’s orbit.

(Adapted from JapanTimes.co.jp)