Rocket Lab Electron rocket lifts off with space debris removal mission
A small satellite launched on a Rocket Lab Electron to develop techniques for removing space debris.
Background
On Sunday/Monday, an Electron rocket launched from Rocket Lab's launch site on New Zealand's Mahia Peninsula. The rocket carried the ADRAS-J satellite for Astroscale, a small satellite designed to inspect a discarded rocket body in orbit.
The main objective of the satellite is to develop techniques for removing space debris. It is part of the Japanese space agency's Commercial Removal of Debris Demonstration program and will lay the groundwork for a future mission to deorbit the rocket stage.
The ADRAS-J satellite features visual and infrared cameras, LiDAR sensors, and onboard sensors. It will initially use ground-based observation data to approach the derelict rocket body and then switch to onboard sensors to complete the rendezvous.
Mission Success
The deployment of the ADRAS-J satellite was successful, with Rocket Lab CEO Peter Beck confirming 100% mission success in a social media post. This marks a significant milestone for the Guidance Navigation and Control (GNC) team.
The mission, nicknamed "On Closer Inspection," is the 44th Electron launch to date and Rocket Lab's second mission of 2024.
Astroscale and Space Debris Removal
Astroscale, founded in 2013, aims to provide on-orbit servicing and space debris removal services. With headquarters in Japan and subsidiaries in the United Kingdom, the United States, France, and Israel, the company is at the forefront of addressing the growing concern of space debris.
Removing space debris is a complex task, especially when dealing with unprepared objects that do not provide location data and are moving at high speeds. The ADRAS-J satellite's mission to approach and assess the derelict rocket body is considered one of the most challenging capabilities necessary for on-orbit services.
