Clear Orbit Secure Future 2026

Appendix D Technology portfolio for space debris Space debris-related technologies can be grouped into a diversified portfolio based on their type of intervention: monitoring, prevention, mitigation and remediation. Each cluster faces technical challenges and cost drivers, as summarized in Table 8. Technology portfolio for space debris matters TABLE 8 Technological clusters Description Key challenge Cost-driven matters Monitoring Detection, tracking and characterization of debris objectsAccuracy, global coverage data sharingInfrastructure set-up, maintenance Ground-based Radar, telescopes and laser systemsWeather interference, range limitation and detection thresholdModerate (depending on sensor type) Space-based Sensors using optical or infrared payloadsHigh cost and power limits in space Very high (launch and operations) Mitigating Prevention of new debris through safer design, operations and traffic coordinationLow compliance and fragmented space traffic managementDevelopment and coordination platform costs Design-for-demise and passivationDeorbit systems (sails, tethers) and neutralization of residual energyMass and reliability trade-offs Medium (added design and integration cost) Collision avoidance systemsData-driven SSA platforms and AI-based conjunction analysisFragmented data standards and lack of shared space traffic management layerLow to medium (depends on AI sophistication) Autonomous manoeuvring systemsOnboard systems enabling real-time avoidanceLimited processing power, autonomy and onboard AIMedium-high (integration cost per spacecraft) Remediating Removal or neutralization of existing debris and derelict objectsTechnical complexity and cost of operationsHigh capital expenditure and mission-specific operating expenses Active debris removal (ADR)Dedicated satellites or servicers capturing and removing objectsDocking precision, object tumbling, legal uncertainty Very high (per-mission development and launch) On-orbit servicing and refuellingExtending satellite life and minimizing failures in orbitModular design and interoperability High R&D and mission-specific Recycling and in-orbit manufacturingRepurposing materials from defunct satellites for new buildsMaterial separation, contamination controls, standardization High upfront investment, uncertain return on investment (ROI) Enabling infrastructure Technologies supporting remediation logistics, e.g. in-orbit tugs, printers and storage depotsSystem compatibility across varied spacecraft architecturesCross-mission standardization cost Clear Orbit, Secure Future: A Call to Action on Space Debris 30