Astroscale, a Japanese company, is collaborating with the Japan Aerospace Agency (JAXA) to develop innovative methods for removing space debris.

JAXA has made significant progress in its Commercial Removal of Debris Demonstration (CRD2) Phase I project, which includes the ADRAS-J mission focused on testing debris removal technology.

Launched in February 2024, ADRAS-J has achieved several key milestones, including successful proximity approaches and fixed-point observations of space debris.

During fly-around observations on July 15 and 16, ADRAS-J approached a 36-foot-long piece of rocket debris within approximately 50 meters, confirming its suitability for removal.

The satellite utilized ground-based observation data to maneuver close to the debris, demonstrating its capability to navigate within several meters of the target.

Astroscale plans to use a robotic arm on a spacecraft currently under construction to capture the debris and guide it into a trajectory where it will mostly burn up in Earth's atmosphere.

This mission represents a crucial step toward addressing the growing problem of space junk in low Earth orbit, which poses risks to active satellites and the International Space Station.

The data gathered from these operations will support future debris capture and removal efforts, contributing to a more sustainable space environment.

Recent incidents involving space debris have underscored the urgency of these efforts, as astronauts aboard the ISS were recently forced to take shelter due to approaching debris.

The rise of megaconstellations, such as OneWeb and Starlink, further emphasizes the need for effective debris removal solutions to prevent orbital clutter.

Astroscale is also developing a specialized satellite service aimed at collecting space junk, highlighting its commitment to addressing the debris issue.

Nick Shave, managing director of Astroscale UK, indicated plans for a commercial satellite removal service following the successful demonstration missions.