- ClearSpace and Arianespace have signed a contract
- ClearSpace-1 mission aims to recover 112-kilogram space debris
- It is scheduled for the second half of 2026
Space exploration continues to fascinate crowds. But by dint of sending objects into space, we are faced with a major problem. Indeed, space debris is a real scourge. It is crucial to remember to clean up after yourself. With this in mind, ClearSpace has signed a contract with Arianespace. The Vaud startup is embarking on an unprecedented mission to remove space debris. A first step that could be a small revolution.
The objective of ClearSpace and Arianespace with the launch of ClearSpace-1? Recovering the upper stage of a Vega rocket launched in 2013. For a decade, this 112 kilogram debris has oscillated between 660 and 800 kilometers in altitude. To carry out this operation, the two companies are betting on the European light launcher Vega C.
To succeed in this mission, ClearSpace-1 embeds technologies of formidable efficiency. In particular, there is a gripper system made up of four robotic arms. This debris with a simple shape and a mass similar to that of a small satellite should allow ClearSpace and Arianespace to shine. The success of the operation could thus make it possible to tackle more ambitious missions. Like several kidnappings during the same flight.
A mission of paramount importance
Today, we send more objects into space than we take out. Therefore, it is urgent to recover space debris to continue space exploration in the best conditions. The executive president of Arianespace recalls that there are 34,000 pieces of space debris more than 10 centimeters above our heads. Unfortunately, this number is not expected to decrease in the coming years. Especially since we cannot really quantify the very small debris. The slightest collision could be very serious.
If we don’t clean up the space junk swarming above our heads, we may end up having to give up space exploration. Indeed, space could become too dangerous to walk around.
Thus, this unprecedented mission for the active removal of space debris, carried by the European Space Agency (ESA), will be launched from the second half of 2026. ClearSpace and Arianespace therefore still have a little time for the operation is successful.
