# RemoveDEBRIS

> project to demonstrate various space debris removal technologies

**Wikidata**: [Q51667820](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q51667820)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RemoveDEBRIS)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/removedebris

## Summary
RemoveDEBRIS is a technology demonstration spacecraft designed to test various methods for removing space debris. It was launched in 2018 by Surrey Satellite Technology and operated by the Surrey Space Centre. The mission aimed to validate practical solutions for mitigating the growing problem of orbital debris.

## Key Facts
- Launched on April 2, 2018, aboard a Falcon 9 Full Thrust rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 40.  
- Weighs 100 kg, with a payload mass of 40 kg.  
- Operated by Surrey Satellite Technology and owned by the Surrey Space Centre at the University of Surrey.  
- Part of the "technology demonstration spacecraft" class, focusing on experimental debris removal technologies.  
- Carried experiments including net capture, harpoon capture, and dragsail deployment.  
- COSPAR ID: 1998-067NT.  
- Manufacturer: Surrey Satellite Technology.  
- Launch contractor: SpaceX.  

## FAQs
### Q: What technologies did RemoveDEBRIS test?  
A: RemoveDEBRIS tested multiple debris removal methods, including a net capture system, a harpoon mechanism, and a dragsail to deorbit the spacecraft.  

### Q: Who developed RemoveDEBRIS?  
A: The spacecraft was developed by Surrey Satellite Technology in collaboration with the Surrey Space Centre at the University of Surrey.  

### Q: Why is RemoveDEBRIS important?  
A: It was one of the first missions to demonstrate practical solutions for cleaning up space debris, addressing a critical challenge for future space sustainability.  

## Why It Matters  
RemoveDEBRIS represents a significant step toward addressing the growing threat of space debris, which poses risks to satellites and crewed missions. By testing real-world solutions like nets and harpoons, the mission provided valuable data for future debris mitigation efforts. As low-Earth orbit becomes increasingly congested, technologies validated by RemoveDEBRIS could play a crucial role in ensuring long-term space accessibility. The project also highlights the role of academic and commercial partnerships in advancing space sustainability.  

## Notable For  
- One of the first missions to successfully test multiple active debris removal technologies in orbit.  
- Demonstrated net capture and harpoon systems—innovative approaches to debris mitigation.  
- A collaborative effort between academia (University of Surrey) and industry (Surrey Satellite Technology).  

## Body  
### Mission Overview  
RemoveDEBRIS was launched on April 2, 2018, as part of a resupply mission to the International Space Station (ISS). It was later deployed from the ISS's Kibo module to begin its experiments.  

### Key Experiments  
- **Net Capture:** Successfully demonstrated capturing a simulated debris target using a net.  
- **Harpoon Test:** Fired a harpoon to penetrate a target, validating a method for securing larger debris.  
- **Dragsail Deployment:** Used a sail to increase atmospheric drag, accelerating the spacecraft's deorbiting process.  

### Technical Specifications  
- Mass: 100 kg  
- Payload mass: 40 kg  
- Launch vehicle: Falcon 9 Full Thrust  
- Operator: Surrey Satellite Technology  

### Legacy  
The mission provided critical insights into the feasibility of active debris removal, influencing future designs for space sustainability initiatives.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report