The UK Space Agency has launched a new procurement process to tackle the growing threat of space debris, initiating a GBP 75.6 million tender for the nation’s first mission to actively remove defunct satellites from orbit.
The proposed Active Debris Removal (ADR) mission will see a specially designed spacecraft, equipped with robotic and autonomous navigation technology, capture and safely de-orbit two non-functioning UK-licensed satellites from low Earth orbit.
The spacecraft will guide the defunct satellites into Earth’s atmosphere, where they will burn up, eliminating potential threats to the satellite networks that power essential services.
“There are an estimated 140 million pieces of space debris smaller than 1cm, and over 54,000 tracked objects larger than 10cm currently orbiting Earth,” the UK Space Agency said. “Even tiny fragments can cause catastrophic damage to satellites. This mission is a critical step in addressing the threat of space debris, ensuring the long-term sustainability of space operations and protecting the infrastructure that underpins modern life.”
The tender process is looking to secure UK expertise in the field of In-orbit Servicing, Assembly and Manufacturing (ISAM). It supports the ambitions of the Modern Industrial Strategy 2025, a 10-year plan to grow future industries.
The tender represents a shift in the UK Space Agency’s approach, from traditional grants to competitive contracts. The UK Space Agency is now seeking a single supplier to deliver the five-year research and development contract, with the mission targeted for launch by the end of 2028. This follows GBP 11 million already invested since 2021 in feasibility studies and design work.
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