Passive means to reduce the impact of Space Debris

Topic description

Scope:

Specific Challenge: Reducing the impact of collisions between active satellites and orbital debris is a challenge that needs to be addressed at multiple levels. In addition to SST which addresses surveyance and tracking to prevent collision other aspects must be considered: 

1. Prevention, avoid adding new debris to the already large debris population.
2. Mitigation, specifically de-orbiting solutions for satellites and launcher upper stages at the end of their operational life.
3. Protection, i.e. shielding satellites from impact of small debris.

Scope: To develop and test concepts and technologies needed for safe de-orbiting and disposal of space objects, including up to in-orbit demonstration as an option. Planned end-of-life de-orbiting or safe disposal of new satellites and launch vehicle’s upper stages as well as non-technical issues including legal issues should be considered.

The Commission considers that proposals requesting a contribution from the EU of between EUR 3 and 4 million would allow this specific challenge to be addressed appropriately. Nonetheless, this does not preclude submission and selection of proposals requesting other amounts.

Expected impact: Innovative and cost effective solutions, allowing scalable system-design, for post-mission disposal of satellites and launcher upper stages which are in line with or exceed international and European guidelines and legal requirements.

Type of action:  Research and innovation actions