24 February 2025 News

Sustainability plan for boosting spacecraft longevity

ClearSpace has taken a bold step towards sustainable space practices by initiating the consolidation phase of its new GEO Life Extension Mission.

Backed by the Luxembourg government through an ESA contract under the Luxembourg National Space Programme (LuxIMPULSE) and the Luxembourg Space Agency, the mission is set to revolutionise in‐orbit servicing.

The project aims to dock with and extend the operational life of geostationary satellites approaching retirement between 2028 and 2030.

It marks a pivotal move for ClearSpace as it expands its capabilities beyond debris removal, addressing the growing need to manage ageing satellites and safeguard the long-term health of the space environment.

ClearSpace’s momentum has been fuelled by robust financial support from key investors such as OTB Ventures and the Luxembourg Future Fund (LFF).

A recent €5.5 million Series A+ round has boosted total funding to €36 million, reinforcing the company’s position as a leader in space sustainability.

The mission also highlights Luxembourg’s commitment to advancing space technologies and benefits from a strong collaboration with the European Space Agency (ESA).

Additionally, ClearSpace has been selected by the UK Space Agency (UKSA) to develop Active Debris Removal missions, further cementing its role in addressing global challenges and redefining future space operations.

Founded in 2018, ClearSpace is rapidly emerging as a transformative force in the space industry and aims to deliver transformative in-orbit services that enable a vibrant, accessible, resilient and sustainable space economy.

With innovative in‐orbit services and groundbreaking projects like the ESA’s flagship ClearSpace-1 mission, the company is poised to drive significant advances in orbital debris removal and in‐orbit servicing, paving the way for a vibrant, accessible, resilient and sustainable space economy.

PHOTO: Artist's impression of ClearSpace servicer approaching a client satellite. © ClearSpace

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