Development of electrodynamic tether technology for space debris removal

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Over the last ten years, the number of space faring States has increased dramatically as well as the number of states capable of launching their own satellites into orbits. Some Earth orbits, specifically the geosynchronous orbits (GSO) ideal for communication satellites, and the Sun synchronous orbits (SSO) favored for Earth observing satellites, are becoming increasingly crowded as more man-made objects are launched into these orbits. Consequently, the probability of accidental collision among operational satellites and space debris (malfunctioned spacecraft and spent rockets) has been increased. It is well recognized that space debris poses a serious threat to the safe operation of satellites and the long-term sustainability of space activities. The current space debris population in low Earth orbit (LEO) will soon reach a sufficient density at some altitudes for the collisions to continue even without any new launches, a collisional cascading called Kessler syndrome if no action is taken. The objective of the engage program is to form a strategic relationship in developing space debris mitigation and removal technology using electrodynamic tethers to prevent the increase of space debris due to non-operational satellites and their fragmentation. It will study (i) the technical feasibility, (ii) the mitigation and remediation strategies that will control debris population effectively, (iii) the relevance of the solution in today's space marketplace, and (iv) how to raise the public awareness of space sustainability. The long-term objective is to fly a mission to demonstrate the EDT deorbit technology using the cost-effective U-Class CubSat platform. This will fulfill the goal of NEPTEC's Mission as a world-class supplier to the international space community. This study also supports the Canada's commitment to the IADC objectives to (i) implement more aggressive measures, especially the removal of massive non-functional or end-of-mission spacecraft and spent rockets in a cost-effective manner, (ii) advance the technology readiness level for the end-of-mission deorbit technologies.