Space Sustainability
Addressing the critical challenges of orbital debris, space traffic management, and ensuring the long-term viability of the space environment.
The Orbital Debris Problem: A Structural Overview
An examination of the sources, risks, and scale of the orbital debris challenge, and its potential impact on current and future space operations in key orbits.
Space Traffic Coordination and Management
Analysis of current and proposed systems for tracking objects in orbit and coordinating maneuvers to prevent collisions. Includes a look at the transition to a civil-led STM system.
Active Debris Removal (ADR) Technologies
A technical and economic analysis of emerging technologies for actively removing defunct satellites and debris, from nets and harpoons to robotic servicing.
Regulatory Approaches to Debris Mitigation
A review of national regulations and international guidelines, such as the '25-year rule' for deorbiting, and an evaluation of their effectiveness and need for updates.
Designing for Demise: End-of-Life Planning
An engineering look into how satellites are being designed for controlled atmospheric reentry or to be moved to graveyard orbits, incorporating sustainability from the start.
Global Norms and the Tragedy of the Commons
An analysis of the geopolitical challenges in establishing and enforcing global norms for responsible behavior in space to prevent a 'tragedy of the commons' scenario in key orbits.