Oxford's Astroscale releases Generation 2 docking plate in further bid to help clean up space
Oxford's Astroscale has launched its Generation 2 docking plate for satellites in another move, which is aimed at making space cleaner and more sustainable.
The new plate, which supports over 15 years of flight life, is designed and manufactured in the UK and enables satellite operators worldwide to manage the end-of-life phase of their satellites, the company says.
By integrating it into satellite designs, operators can also ensure that they are equipped for potential servicing, simplifying the process and minimising costs associated with future operations.
Nick Shave, managing director at Astroscale UK said: "The Generation 2 Docking Plate represents a major leap forward in enabling satellite operators to be proactive in managing end-of-life scenarios and embracing in-orbit servicing.
"With its high-performance design, compatibility with various docking techniques, and advanced fiducial markers, the Docking Plate offers a practical and future-proof solution for the industry.
"We are proud to contribute to the UK government's space sustainability goals and support the responsible use of space resources. Astroscale remains committed to pioneering safe and sustainable technologies that ensure a thriving and debris-free space environment for generations to come."
Space debris is described as defunct human-made objects in space, mainly in Earth's orbit, which no longer serve any useful function.
It includes derelict spacecraft and abandoned launch vehicle stages, fragmentation debris from the breakup of derelict rocket bodies and spacecraft. As the number of active satellites in orbit continues to increase, the need for reliable and efficient means of removing defunct satellites from space has therefore become paramount.
The UK continues to be a leader in both the policy and technology development for space debris removal and sustainability.
Founded in 2013, Astroscale is developing innovative and scalable solutions across the spectrum of on-orbit servicing, including life extension, in-space situational awareness, end-of-life, and active debris removal.
It is the UK and Europe subsidiary of Astroscale Holdings Inc and in May this year, the company inked, alongside 23 other signatories, a 'statement for a responsible space sector', which was described as a "significant" move towards the future of sustainable space.
Other distinguished organisations included Arianespace, NOSA, PT Space, Kayrros, Absolut Group, and POLSA.
READ MORE: Astroscale opens Oxfordshire facility to build space debris removal craft
