CORDIS-JRC

Abandoned decommissioned satellites and upper stages of multi-stage rockets are a growing threat to in-service spacecraft. EU-funded scientists are developing a mini solar sail for drag deorbiting to solve the problem.

Uncontrolled growth of orbiting space debris poses an increasing risk to present and future space missions. EU-funded scientists working on the project 'De-orbiting of satellites using solar sails' (DEORBIT SAIL) are providing a low-cost and effective deorbiting solution.