ESA Approves ClearSpace-1 Debris-Cleanup Mission Changes

The European Space Agency (ESA) has given the green light to significant alterations in the ClearSpace-1 debris-cleanup mission, marking a pivotal moment in efforts to mitigate space debris hazards.

Under the newly approved plan, OHB SE of Bremen, Germany, will supply the satellite bus and spearhead systems integration and launch operations. This collaboration adds a robust layer to the mission's infrastructure. Swiss startup ClearSpace will take charge of the rendezvous and proximity operations, as well as the crucial task of capturing the mission's new debris target: ESA's Project for On-Board Autonomy-1 (Proba-1) satellite, overseeing its safe reentry into Earth's atmosphere.

Originally slated to capture a Vega rocket payload adapter, the mission's target shifted after a notification from the U.S. Space Force's 18th Space Defense Squadron in August, indicating potential collision risks around the Vega secondary payload adapter, Vespa.

The new target, Proba-1, launched by ESA in 1998, presents a different but equally pressing challenge. Weighing in at 94 kilograms, Proba-1 orbits at a lower altitude compared to the 112-kilogram Vespa, which orbits at approximately 801 by 664 kilometers. This adjustment demands precision and adaptability from the mission's engineers and operators.

"This made it more difficult to capture and added complexity to the mission as the goal is to remove debris completely,"- Luc Piguet, CEO of ClearSpace

Proba-1's controlled state and smaller dimensions compared to Vespa offer a more manageable capture prospect, but challenges persist.

"It's important to ensure that no debris remains in orbit after the mission is completed,"- Luc Piguet, CEO of ClearSpace

ClearSpace-1 is poised to employ a four-armed mechanism for the delicate task of capturing Proba-1. This method, coupled with lowering Proba-1's perigee, aims to hasten its reentry into Earth's atmosphere, thereby mitigating potential future collision risks.

"These key technologies are crucial in addressing various types of debris targets and performing in-orbit services with cooperation," - Luc Piguet, CEO of ClearSpace

The competition between ClearSpace and Astroscale for a UK Space Agency debris-removal mission underscores the growing recognition of the importance of space sustainability.

"We believe that a strong partnership between startups and established large prime contractors highlights the best of both worlds to build reliable, competitive, and scalable products and services." - Luc Piguet, CEO of ClearSpace

ESA's selection of ClearSpace for the ClearSpace-1 mission in 2020 marked a significant step in space cleanup initiatives. With the latest approvals and adjustments, the mission is poised to embark on a critical journey toward a cleaner and safer space environment.

No launch date has been announced for the revised mission.