Swiss startup edges closer to first-ever space trash collection

The first active removal of space debris has moved closer to lift-off after a new deal was inked on the landmark mission. Swiss startup ClearSpace and French rocket giant Arianespace today announced that a launch contract has been signed for the assignment. The mission, named ClearSpace-1, aims to capture and deorbit a chunk of garbage weighing over 100 kg. To start, the trash-collecting spacecraft will be released into a sun-synchronous orbit by the new European light launcher Vega C. After commissioning and critical tests, the spacecraft will be raised to the target litter, which will be disposed of through an atmospheric…

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