In-Space Electric Propulsion System Enabling JAXA Commercial Removal of Debris Demonstration (CRD2): Challenges and Relevant Physics

Space debris is being recognized as an important environmental issue. The increase of space debris population poses potential danger on human spacecrafts including International Space Station as well as communication and navigation satellites.

 

To mitigate debris threat, both approaches of Post Mission Disposal (PMD), to reduce the manmade debris increasing rate; and Active Debris Removal (ADR), to selectively remove highly dangerous debris; are widely recognized as necessary.

 

Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) is taking its leadership in establishing the technological feasibility of PMD and ADR. In accordance with the Japanese government's Basic Plan on Space Policy, JAXA has started the Commercial Removal of Debris Demonstration (CRD2) program in March 2020, with the aim of establishing ADR as a new business field and developing a new market where the private sector can play an active role.

 

There are many technical challenges for debris removal, and a significant portion of them are closely related to plasma physics. In-space plasma devices such as electric propulsions and electro-dynamic tether are essentially important to provide mobility necessary for debris removal, plasma and spacecraft interference is critical to achieve safe and reliable debris capturing. A brief overview of the CRD2 program, the challenges and the details of the research activities are introduced.