UK set to launch first mission to clean up space

The UK Space Agency has launched a new process to tackle the growing threat of space debris, initiating a £75.6 million tender for the country’s first mission to actively remove defunct satellites from orbit.

"This marks a pivotal step in the UK’s efforts to protect vital space infrastructure and ensure the long-term safety of the orbital environment," - the UK Space Agency stated.

At the heart of the proposed Active Debris Removal (ADR) mission, a specially designed spacecraft, equipped with cutting-edge British robotic and autonomous navigation technology, will 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 such as GPS, weather forecasting, and emergency communications. 

According to the agency, 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.

"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," - it said in the statement. 

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 £11 million already invested since 2021 in feasibility studies and design work, underscoring the government’s long-term commitment to becoming a clean space superpower. 

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