ESA partners with Airbus, OHB, and Thales Alenia Space for ‘Zero Debris’ satellite platforms

The European Space Agency has embarked on a collective initiative by signing contracts with Airbus Defence and Space, OHB, and Thales Alenia Space to develop large low Earth orbit satellite platforms that adhere to “Zero Debris” standards. This move aligns with ESA’s ambitious commitment to “significantly limit” the production of space debris by 2030 in hopes of making a significant step forward in space sustainability.

Commitment to Zero Debris by 2030

ESA’s “Zero Debris approach” is a pivotal component of its broader strategy to ensure its vision of the sustainable use of space. With ever increasing congestion in low Earth orbit, along with the rising number of satellite launches, the need for robust debris mitigation measures has never been more critically expressed by many space industry insiders. 

By fostering the development of zero-debris platforms, ESA aims to support the industry during this transition period to ensure Europe remains at the forefront of sustainable space technology.

Collaboration with industry giants

Under the joint procurement of ESA’s Operations and Earth Observation Directorates, the “Large LEO platforms evolution for Zero Debris Policy Implementation Phase 1” has been initiated. This involves developing satellite platforms to the system requirement review level, which is expected to take approximately 18 months from the project kickoff last month. 

During this period, ESA and its partners plan to explore the main technical options and establish a baseline design for the satellite platforms. Airbus Defence and Space, OHB, and Thales Alenia Space, as prime contractors, are each tasked with creating a standardized low Earth orbit satellite platform that meets ESA’s debris policy.

Phased development approach

The first phase focuses on the initial design and requirement validation, leading to a robust system requirement review. The subsequent Phase 2 would then see the prime contractors collaborate with additional technology suppliers to integrate innovative solutions. 

Phase 2 seeks to elevate the platform designs to the preliminary design review level, which is expected to involve comprehensive evaluations and testing of the practical aspects of the platforms. 

“It is essential to invest into the development of zero-debris compliant spacecraft platforms now,” Holger Krag, Head of Space Safety at ESA, said in a statement. “Platforms and their onboard debris prevention measures will have to become more failsafe to preserve the endangered lower Earth orbits for future use.”

Future implications

The successful development of zero-debris satellite platforms is expected to mark a transformative milestone in space operations, many space insiders agree, and in setting new standards for the global space industry. By ensuring future satellites are built with stringent debris mitigation measures, ESA hopes to pave the way for safer and more sustainable space exploration.

In an ESA overview of its Zero Debris approach last year, Krag said, “We are aiming for rules that compare to every national park on Earth – what you bring in you must take with you when you leave.”