Using lasers to clean up space debris.

Using lasers to burn space debris, Japanese and Indian startups are collaborating to solve the problem of low-cost waste disposal.

As human exploration and commercial space travel increase, the problem of space debris is gradually threatening the operation of satellites and future space missions.

According to a new report, Japanese startup Orbital Lasers and Indian technology company InspeCity plan to launch a "laser gun-equipped satellite" to clean up space debris, and they expect to conduct the first demonstration of laser cleaning technology in space after 2027.

Japanese and Indian startups are collaborating to develop laser technology, targeting the market for cleaning up space debris. Photo: @123RF.

Earth's orbit is littered with decommissioned satellites, rocket debris, and other man-made debris, posing a significant threat to operational satellites and future projects. Japanese company Orbital Lasers has partnered with Indian robotics company InspeCity on projects involving the removal of decommissioned satellites and extending the lifespan of spacecraft.

Orbital Lasers will focus on addressing the problem of space debris. Their system uses laser energy to vaporize small areas on the surface of the debris, stopping its rotation, and then collects them using robots or space tugs, making subsequent cleanup easier.

Aditya Baraskar, head of global business at the company, said they plan to complete space testing after 2027 and offer the service to satellite operators. He added that the system could be installed on InspeCity satellites, but would need to pass regulatory reviews in Japan and India.

Beyond technology, cleaning up space debris requires addressing regulatory constraints, cost pressures, and commercialization challenges, particularly regarding business models. Convincing satellite operators to accept cleanup services remains a major challenge.

With the number of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites increasing dramatically, the potential of the space debris cleanup services market is growing, and industry experts predict that the global space services and cleanup market could exceed several billion dollars by 2030.

Source: https://khoahocdoisong.vn/su-dung-tia-laser-de-don-dep-rac-thai-vu-tru-post2149101845.html