The innovative device, called RemoveDEBRIS, was recently sent to the International Space Station. There he was able to demonstrate the potential of new technologies that allow cleaning the near-earth space from debris.
The scientists' experiment began four days ago. Within its framework, the satellite into space a simulated piece of space debris, after which it fired a special net in its direction, which captured it. The principle of operation of the new unit is that as soon as the satellite captures debris into the network, it will descend into low orbit, where the debris can burn up in the atmosphere. The curators of the project were extremely pleased that the fruits of their six years of work were finally brought to life and proved to be effective.
The team of researchers noted that soon they plan to begin testing the so-called computer vision, as well as the technology of capturing large objects with a harpoon.
At the moment, it is known that in near-earth space there are about eight thousand tons of debris, which poses a potential threat to any small spacecraft, including satellites.
