The SatLeash Experiment: A Step Forward in Technology Development for Future Active Debris Removal Missions

Abstract

The space community is nowadays well aware of the risks connected to space debris. For this reason, the research on this topic is very active and purposeful. In the last decade, the Department of Aerospace Science and Technology of Politecnico di Milano put a lot of effort in developing a clear strategy for Active Debris Removal, trying to increase the Technology Readiness Level of the proposed solution as much as possible. This paper wants to quickly recall the milestones reached by the Politecnico di Milano in the development of a net-based active debris capture strategy. Particular attention and emphasis will be reserved for the SatLeash experiment.

Paolo Lunghi

Assistant Professor of Aerospace Systems

Aiming for autonomous Guidance, Navigation, and Control for spacecraft.