UKSEDS In-Orbit Servicing and Manufacturing

Currently, space debris poses a significant problem in outer space. This issue must be tackled to ensure the safety of space missions and the achievement of their objectives. The Low Earth Orbit (LEO) is particularly cluttered with debris, leading to the malfunction of satellite components and the consumption of substantial amounts of fuel to avoid collisions. Despite these efforts, many pieces of debris still impact and damage spacecraft due to inadequate tracking; typically, only the regions where satellites are most vulnerable to collisions are known. 

To address this issue effectively, the proposed solution is to develop a spacecraft capable of tracking even the smallest pieces of debris (smaller than 10 cm) with minimal uncertainty in their trajectory. Laser technology will be utilized for debris detection, with the goal of establishing a zone where, if any space debris passes through, its principal characteristics can be determined, and its path can be accurately traced.