Japan and India Join Forces to Build Laser-equipped Satellite for Clearing Space Junk

Japan and India have established a partnership program where startup firms will collaborate on space technologies to solve the growing global challenge of space debris. Such a problem stems from the rising number of satellites that are being sent to orbit earth, with space debris proving a serious concern within the global space community, hampering not only operating satellites but future missions.  

The project comes up with a satellite that will thereby use advanced laser technology to track and clear debris in the orbit of Earth. The mechanism involves high-powered lasers that can push small pieces of debris into lower orbits so that these would burn upon atmospheric re-entering. This ingenious mechanism is much safer and feasible when used for managing clutter in space than other traditional methods like roboteering, arms, or nets.  

The Indian startup company, recognized for its excellence in satellite manufacturing, supports the project by designing and constructing the core satellite. On the other hand, the partner company based in Japan, a leader in laser technology systems, integrates the system that could be used for targeting and neutralizing debris. They are after a more affordable and scalable solution to a significant global concern.  

Of course, it is a trend of collaborations crossing borders in the space sector, especially those between Asian nations. As much as both nations have ranked as important space players, this step will lead them to even higher levels on issues shared challenges.

Development of the satellite equipped with laser has entered the early stage; such feasibility studies and tests with prototype are soon expected in the next few months. If successful, this initiative could open the doors of international collaboration on keeping space safe and sustainable into the future.