UK Space Agency allocates funds for space preservation efforts

The UK Space Agency recently allocated a £2m investment for research into the refuelling of a mission designated for the removal of space debris.

The funding is directed towards feasibility studies that will explore the capability to refuel a UK national debris removal mission. Additionally, the studies will consider the prospects of refuelling commercial satellites.

Currently, numerous inactive space objects orbit Earth. Statistics indicate almost 37,000 objects larger than 10cm, and approximately 130 million smaller than 1cm, ranging from decommissioned satellites to tools lost by astronauts, even including specks of paint. Their high-speed orbits pose a significant hazard to active satellites.

In a bid to foster the long-term sustainability of space, the UK Space Agency is spearheading initiatives to bolster UK capabilities in space environment management, thereby affirming its commitment to more sustainable space operations.

A noteworthy venture is the UK national debris removal mission, set for a 2026 launch, which is designed with refuelling in mind.

www.gov.uk/government/publications/sbri-active-debris-refuelling-mission-feasibility-study-phase-1