Netting Space Debris

Mar-31-15 The ESA is currently testing the feasibility of using nets to snag and collect orbiting space junk.

Developed as part of the Clean Space initiative, the nets were tested inside an aircraft flying in parabolic arcs (to create moments of weightlessness). In order to determine which kinds of net would work best in a low-Earth orbit, the nets were shot at scale-model satellites using a compressed air ejector. Four high-speed HD cameras recorded each test, allowing the engineers to determine that the thinner-spun nets were more effective at netting debris than the thicker, woven version.

If further tests prove successful, the nets may become part of ESA’s 2021 e.Deorbit mission to test the feasibility of removing large chunks of space junk from low-Earth orbit.

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