In a significant advancement for space sustainability, Astroscale Japan has been awarded a contract for Phase II of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency’s (JAXA) Commercial Removal of Debris Demonstration (CRD2) program. This initiative, valued at approximately 13 billion yen, is one of the world’s first large-scale demonstrations focused on removing unprepared space debris from orbit. The program highlights the increasing need to address space debris—a challenge that’s becoming ever more critical as the number of satellites and missions in orbit continues to rise.
The Mission: Tackling Unprepared Space Debris
The CRD2 program targets the removal of an unprepared Japanese upper stage rocket body. Unlike debris equipped with docking aids or removal technologies, unprepared objects pose a greater challenge in space debris mitigation. In Phase I, Astroscale Japan developed the Active Debris Removal by Astroscale-Japan (ADRAS-J), a pioneering mission that successfully executed rendezvous and proximity operations (RPO) to approach and survey the rocket body.
ADRAS-J’s groundbreaking achievements include capturing detailed imagery and assessing the structural condition of the debris. The mission’s follow-up spacecraft, ADRAS-J2, is set to enhance these operations by safely capturing and deorbiting the debris using robotic arm technologies. With its successful Phase I operations, including controlled fly-around observations at a mere 50-meter distance, ADRAS-J2 is poised to play a vital role in global space debris remediation.
Space Sustainability: A Growing Global Priority
Astroscale’s work in space debris removal is a significant step forward in ensuring long-term orbital sustainability. As the commercial space sector expands, addressing the mounting issue of space debris is crucial. Left unmanaged, this debris poses risks not only to operational satellites but also to future missions. JAXA’s support and collaboration with commercial entities like Astroscale set a strong precedent for how governments and private enterprises can work together to safeguard the future of space operations.
VURDHAAN’s Commitment to Space Sustainability
At VURDHAAN, we recognize the growing importance of space sustainability as a core component of responsible development. Our consultancy is actively engaged in advising stakeholders on best practices for mitigating space debris, including supporting the implementation of standards like the Space Sustainability Rating (SSR). We help organizations navigate the complexities of the Outer Space Treaty and develop strategies to reduce the environmental impact of their missions, ensuring that space remains a viable domain for exploration and commerce.
Astroscale’s Milestone in Space Debris Mitigation
The successful execution of ADRAS-J and the upcoming ADRAS-J2 mission underscore how rapidly the field of space sustainability is evolving. Astroscale’s technological advancements, such as proximity operations and collision avoidance systems, are setting new standards for debris removal. The continuation of the CRD2 program not only accelerates Japan’s leadership in space sustainability but also serves as a model for international collaboration in addressing the pressing issue of space debris.
Conclusion: Shaping a Sustainable Future in Space
Astroscale Japan’s Phase II contract with JAXA marks a critical juncture in space debris management, reflecting a broader commitment to orbital sustainability. As the industry leader in on-orbit servicing, Astroscale’s ongoing efforts exemplify how innovation and collaboration can lead to real progress in mitigating space debris. At VURDHAAN, we remain dedicated to supporting such groundbreaking initiatives through our expertise in space sustainability frameworks, helping our clients play a meaningful role in the sustainable future of space exploration and operations.
With this momentum, the journey toward a cleaner and safer orbital environment continues—and VURDHAAN is here to guide organizations every step of the way.