Space debris removal by ground-based lasers: main conclusions of the European project CLEANSPACE

• DOI: 10.1364/ao.53.000i45
• Publication Date: 2014-10-20T14:53:49Z
• Authors: Bruno Esmiller; Christophe Jacque...; Hans-Albert Eckel; Edwin Wnuk
• Keywords: Visibility

Studies show that the number of debris in low Earth orbit is exponentially growing despite future release mitigation measures considered. Specifically, already existing population small and medium (between 1 cm several dozens cm) today a concrete threat to operational satellites. A ground-based laser solution which can remove, at expense nondestructive way, hazardous around selected space assets appears as highly promising answer. This studied within framework CLEANSPACE project part FP7 program. The overall objective is: propose an efficient affordable global system architecture, tackle safety regulation aspects, political implications collaborations, develop technological bricks, establish roadmap for development implantation fully functional protection system. paper will present main conclusions project.