Astroscale Ltd., a subsidiary of Astroscale Holdings, Inc., proudly endorses the newly published Zero Debris Technical Booklet (the “Booklet”), a key milestone to achieve a safe and sustainable space environment. In 2024, Astroscale Ltd signed the Zero Debris Charter (the “Charter”), a collaborative initiative facilitated by the European Space Agency, which outlines high-level guiding principles and specific, jointly defined targets to achieve zero debris by 2030.
The Booklet, published today and available to all, presents a collection of technical needs, solutions and key enablers that collectively outline the path to achieving the targets of the Zero Debris Charter and adhering to its guiding principles.
“The publication of the Zero Debris Technical Booklet marks a significant step toward ensuring the long-term sustainability of outer space activities,” said Nick Shave, Managing Director of Astroscale Ltd. “Together with our partners in the Zero Debris community, Astroscale has been actively involved in this effort, contributing to workshops, discussions and the editorial process to identify the necessary actions and solutions. We are proud to have played an integral role in the entire process and are pleased to see these collaborative efforts reflected in this comprehensive document for responsible space actors.”
Astroscale’s contributions to the Booklet underscores its leadership in both engineering and policy, combining technical expertise with a deep commitment to space sustainability. The collaboration between Astroscale’s engineering and policy teams ensured that the identified solutions are both realistic and achievable by 2030. Though the Booklet focuses on technical aspects and does not delve into legal, regulatory, political, or financial dimensions, Astroscale’s input ensured that the technical solutions are grounded in scientific evidence, aligned with the direction of policy, and are implementable across the broader space industry. The Booklet provides the technical rationale for achieving the ambitious goals set out by the Charter and offers a roadmap for stakeholders to follow.
“Importantly, the Booklet also highlights the need to adopt a circular economy in space, reducing waste while maximizing the use and utility of space assets. We believe the Booklet will be a cornerstone for implementing the Zero Debris Charter, offering clear technical guidance and practical steps for the space community,” Shave continued. “At Astroscale, our vision for a sustainable future in space is embodied through our In-Orbit Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing (ISAM) missions and services, which play a pivotal role in tackling the space debris challenge.”
Astroscale was one of over 40 organizations actively engaged in developing the Zero Debris Charter. Upon signing, Astroscale issued a statement and has consistently supported the Charter’s principles and collaborative approach. Following extensive discussion with industry on what is feasible, the publication of the Booklet provides a technical perspective and rationale for achieving the Charter’s ambitions.
As a living document, the Zero Debris Technical Booklet will be periodically updated by the Zero Debris community to ensure it remains aligned with new solutions and evolving space sustainability challenges. You can access the latest version of the Booklet here:
