Cooperative Venture Launched for On-Orbit Servicing
Cooperative Venture Launched for On-Orbit Servicing
ClearSpace and Plextek to Address Key Technical Issues
An ongoing partnership between ClearSpace and Plextek aims to address the key technical challenges of space debris removal and satellite servicing. In the dynamic field of on-orbit servicing, this cooperative venture will leverage the core competencies of both entities to enhance the reliability and precision of in-orbit operations.
"Solving the complex puzzle of space debris requires more than just technical capability; it demands an innovative spirit and collaborative mindset.”
Brent Hudson, Plextek
Plextek's role is to engineer solutions that provide the navigational eyes for ClearSpace's missions. Capitalizing their experience in radar, particularly in millimeter wave solutions with fully integrated antenna, waveguide, RF electronic and digital signal processing elements, these technologies are critical for the delicate maneuvers required to rendezvous with, capture, and ultimately deorbit defunct satellites and debris.
Power and weight are a premium on a satellite, and Plextek’s proposed radar uses two times less electrical power and is less than one-third less of the weight compared to other RPO sensing solutions.
"Solving the complex puzzle of space debris requires more than just technical capability; it demands an innovative spirit and collaborative mindset. Plextek is proud to be at the forefront of this challenge alongside ClearSpace, combining our rich heritage in engineering with cutting-edge solutions to support sustainable space operations," said Brent Hudson, CEO at Plextek.
"In this mission, we chose Plextek due to their proven technical expertise. Their radar systems are instrumental for achieving the paramount need for safety and precision in proximity operations," said Valentin Valhondo, Technical Program Manager for ClearSpace.
The collaboration is instrumental for both ClearSpace and Plextek, impacting broader economic and technological goals within the space sector. Nicolas Croisard, Senior Spacecraft Systems Engineer at ClearSpace, emphasized the importance of this partnership in integrating UK-based technological capabilities into ClearSpace’s supply chain. “Our collaboration with Plextek enhances our capabilities, thereby supporting not only ClearSpace’s immediate operational goals but also expanding our Servicing to include satellite life extension and refueling operations,” Croisard said.
As space operations become more congested, the demand for effective debris management and servicing solutions increases, highlighting the significance of this collaboration in promoting sustainable space exploration.
The partnership is facilitating advancements in radar technology and operational approaches necessary for effective in-orbit servicing. By combining Plextek’s technical expertise in radar systems with ClearSpace’s solutions, the partnership is setting benchmarks for innovation and operational excellence in the space sector.
“Our work with Plextek not only advances our technical capabilities but also contributes to the robustness of the UK’s growing space industry, supporting local technology development and implementation,” added Valentin.