Electron Rocket to Deploy Astroscale's Debris Inspection Satellite in Space Sustainability Effort

Electron Rocket to Deploy Astroscale's Debris Inspection Satellite in Space Sustainability Effort
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Feb 08, 2024

Rocket Lab USA, Inc. (Nasdaq: RKLB) has announced a launch window for a landmark mission in collaboration with Astroscale Japan Inc. The mission, dubbed 'On Closer Inspection,' is set to commence during a 14-day window opening on February 19th NZDT, marking a significant step in the quest for orbital sustainability.

The mission's focal point, the deployment of the Active Debris Removal by Astroscale-Japan (ADRAS-J) satellite, represents a critical phase in a broader orbital debris removal initiative. ADRAS-J's objective is to demonstrate the feasibility of approaching, inspecting, and gathering vital data on space debris for future removal efforts, thus contributing to the sustainable utilization of outer space.

Launching from Rocket Lab's Launch Complex 1 in New Zealand, the mission leverages Rocket Lab's Electron rocket's precision and flexibility. The Electron's capability for dedicated launches and precise orbital insertion is crucial for the mission's success, given the intricate nature of rendezvous operations with non-cooperative objects in space.

The target for ADRAS-J's inspection is a defunct Japanese H-2A rocket stage, a remnant from the GOSAT Earth observation satellite launch in 2009. This object, measuring 11 meters in length and 4 meters in diameter, orbits Earth laden with valuable insights into the behaviors and characteristics of space debris.

Peter Beck, Rocket Lab's Founder and CEO, emphasized Electron's unique suitability for such complex missions. "Electron is really the only vehicle capable of delivering such a complex mission on an expedited timeline," Beck stated, highlighting the satellite's enhanced control over launch and deployment parameters facilitated by the Electron's Kick Stage.

Nobu Okada, Founder and CEO of Astroscale, expressed pride in the collaborative effort to address space sustainability challenges. "We are proud to join forces with Rocket Lab to launch the world's first attempt to safely approach a piece of large debris," Okada remarked. ADRAS-J stands as a testament to Astroscale's commitment to technological innovation and the advancement of on-orbit servicing sectors, crucial for the future of space sustainability and debris removal.

Scheduled as Rocket Lab's 2nd launch in 2024 and marking the 44th mission for the Electron rocket, 'On Closer Inspection' underscores the evolving capabilities and aspirations within the space industry. By tackling the pressing issue of orbital debris, the mission paves the way for safer, more sustainable space exploration and utilization by future generations.

This mission also highlights the critical importance of highly responsive mission planning and execution, with Rocket Lab receiving final orbital parameters from Astroscale just 20 days before launch. Such precision underscores the technological prowess and collaborative spirit driving the mission, setting a precedent for future endeavors in space sustainability.