Rocket Lab is set to launch an ambitious space-junk inspection mission on behalf of the Japanese company Astroscale. Scheduled for this morning (Feb. 18), the mission aims to deploy Astroscale’s ADRAS-J satellite atop an Electron rocket from Rocket Lab’s launch site in New Zealand.
The ADRAS-J satellite, which stands for “Active Debris Removal by Astroscale-Japan,” represents a significant step forward in humanity’s endeavor to tackle the escalating issue of space junk. Weighing in at 330 pounds (150 kilograms), ADRAS-J will embark on the first phase of an orbital debris removal program, tasked with testing technologies and operations for approaching and monitoring debris objects in space.
The mission is said to be the first phase of an orbital debris removal program while during this the process, ADRAS-J is designated for testing technologies and operations for approaching and monitoring debris objects as explained Rocket Lab representatives.
The deployment of ADRAS-J is expected to take place approximately 64.5 minutes after liftoff, at an altitude of about 373 miles (600 kilometers) above Earth. Once in orbit, ADRAS-J will set its sights on the upper stage of the Japanese H-2A rocket, which launched the GOSAT Earth observation satellite back in 2009.
ADRAS-J shall commence flying around the stage, 11 meters long and four meters in diameter, inspecting the subject with cameras, as mentioned by Rocket Lab in the mission description.
The data gathered by ADRAS-J during its mission will not only contribute to the removal of space junk but also ensure the sustainable use of space for future generations. This mission aligns with Astroscale’s commitment to addressing the issue of space debris, as evidenced by their previous demonstration mission, ELSA-d, and their upcoming COSMIC mission aimed at capturing and removing defunct satellites from orbit.
If successful, today’s launch will mark a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to safeguard Earth’s orbital environment. With space junk posing an increasing threat to satellites and spacecraft, missions like ADRAS-J underscore the importance of proactive measures to mitigate the risks associated with orbital debris.
