Using Small Satellites to Remove Non-Cooperative Space Debris

Advancements in Small Satellite technologies have allowed for an increase in the number of satellites in orbit around the earth. Unfortunately, this also means that this has led to an increase in space debris in orbit around the earth. Space debris, if left unattended, can pose a severe threat to near-earth activities and therefore needs to be mitigated urgently. To address this problem, we suggest a small satellite system capable of active space debris removal through “grouping and clumping” together of space debris using rendezvous and docking operations. We propose using an electromagnetic system in tandem with an inflatable system. These systems will enable docking with a space debris object and pulling it out of orbit, thereby clearing the orbit of space debris. We suggest using electromagnets because a magnetic field will ensure a stable storage position and allow the small satellite to attach or detach at will. This mechanism may be achieved by including ratiometric and proximity sensors. The electromagnetic system will be capable of attaching itself to the debris and staying locked to the object’s wall until it is necessary to release the object. The inflatable system will slow down the object to allow a soft capture of the space debris and also deploy a drag area once in a position to move the debris out of orbit. The inflatable system will consist of gasses such as N2 (Nitrogen) that can be reused for as many operations as the small satellite needs to accomplish. The system can then reuse the gas by absorbing it back into tanks once the debris has been captured/secured. The small satellite will then use the same inflatable to enter the earth’s atmosphere to avoid contributing to existing space debris. This paper constructs system and subsystem requirements for such a small satellite system and explores their key enabling technologies. We also discuss potential risk factors and mitigation measures necessary to implement this technology in space applications.