Space Debris Removal Services Market - By Debris size (1mm to 1 cm, 1 cm to 10 cm, Greater than 10 cm), By Orbit (LEO, GEO), By Technique (Direct Debris Removal, Indirect Debris Removal), By End User (Commercial, Government) & Forecast, 2024 - 2032

Space Debris Removal Services Market Size

Space Debris Removal Services Market was valued at USD 519.6 million in 2023 and is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of over 11% between 2024 and 2032.
 

There are a lot more objects in the Earth's orbit now than there were a few years ago due to the expansion of satellite constellations such as those launched by SpaceX, Amazon, and OneWeb. These massive networks, made up of thousands of tiny satellites, improve communication throughout the world and offer a range of services, including internet access and Earth observation. Nevertheless, there is a greater chance of accidents and space debris buildup due to the quick deployment of these constellations. Effective space debris removal services have become essential to manage and reduce the hazards brought on by this increase in orbital objects and to ensure safe and sustainable space operations in the future.
 

National and international regulatory agencies are implementing stronger laws to combat the growing problem of space debris. Guidelines for satellite end-of-life disposal, collision avoidance, and active debris removal are mandated by organizations such as the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) and other space agencies. These rules are intended to reduce the production of new debris and encourage ethical conduct during space operations. The strict adherence to these regulations fuels the market for sophisticated debris removal products and services, guaranteeing the long-term viability and security of space operations. Tighter laws are necessary to protect the space environment for coming generations.
 

The high operating expenses of space debris cleanup may hamper market growth. Large sums of money must be invested in cutting-edge technology, including robotics, propulsion systems, and Artificial Intelligence (AI), to develop, launch, and manage debris removal missions. The expenses required for R&D are high.  Adhering to strict regulatory requirements can also be expensive. Debris removal is not always financially feasible, particularly for startups and smaller businesses. Overcoming these obstacles will require securing sufficient money and proving cost-effectiveness. The market's overall progress is impacted by high operating expenses, which impede the general adoption and scalability of debris removal technologies.
 

Space Debris Removal Services Market Trends

International organizations, commercial enterprises, and governmental bodies working together are progressively influencing the space debris cleanup industry. Public-private partnerships, such as the one NASA has with commercial organizations, are designed to share risks, resources, and expertise. These partnerships expedite the creation of efficient debris removal systems, lower costs, and promote technological improvements. To manage the space debris issue and ensure sustainable space operations, collaborative efforts are essential. These can be achieved through harnessing varied talents and stimulating innovations. For instance, in November 2020, the European Space Agency (ESA) partnered with ClearSpace for a mission to capture and remove a piece of space debris, demonstrating international cooperation.
 

The development of autonomous systems for the clearance of space debris is becoming increasingly popular. These technologies use AI and ML to improve tracking, catching, and deorbiting debris with efficiency and precision. Minimal human participation is required for autonomous spacecraft to operate, lowering operating costs and raising mission success rates. This development promises more dependable and expandable approaches to space debris management, aligning with the larger movement in space technology toward automation. For instance, in March 2021, Astroscale launched its ELSA-d mission, demonstrating autonomous capabilities in capturing and deorbiting defunct satellites using a magnetic capture mechanism.
 

Space Debris Removal Services Market Analysis

Based on debris size, the market is divided into 1 mm to 1 cm, 1 cm to 10 cm and greater than 10 cm. The 1 mm to 1 cm segment dominates the market and is expected to reach over USD 700 million by 2032.
 

• Every millimeter of debris presents a risk in the market, highlighting the utmost necessity for efficient management. Owing to their high orbital velocities, a single millimeter-sized debris can collide with functioning satellites or spacecraft, causing substantial damage.
   
• Therefore, maintaining the sustainability and safety of space activities depend on the ability to find, track, and remove trash as small as 1 millimeter. Innovative capture mechanisms and precise tracking systems are only two examples of the cutting-edge tactics and technology needed to handle even the smallest fragments, reduce hazards, and protect orbital environments for future missions.
   

Based on end use, the market is categorized into commercial and government. The commercial segment is the fastest growing segment with a CAGR of over 13% between 2024 and 2032.
 

• The commercial segment has significant importance in the space debris removal services market due to the growing involvement of private organizations in satellite deployment and space operations. Innovation and competitiveness in the sector are fueled by commercial enterprises, including satellite operators and up-and-coming providers of space debris cleaning services.
   
• They make investments in cutting-edge technologies for tracking, capturing, and deorbiting trash to protect their satellite constellations and maintain legal compliance. Additionally, commercial endeavors provide customized solutions for end-of-life satellite services as well as active debris removal, meeting a range of client demands and promoting sustainable space debris management techniques that support the sustainability of space ecosystems.
   

North America dominated the global space debris removal services market in 2023, accounting for a share of over 37%. The U.S. plays a leading role in the market through its pioneering efforts in space technology and policy. The U.S. government agencies, such as NASA and the Department of Defense, are investing heavily in R&D of debris removal technologies. Private businesses based in the U.S., such as SpaceX and Northrop Grumman, are leading the way in creative approaches to debris reduction and satellite maintenance. Furthermore, the U.S. establishes global norms and regulations via agencies such as the Federal Communications Commission and its partnerships with other nations, influencing the legal structure that oversees space debris disposal worldwide.
 

China is actively expanding its presence in the space debris removal services industry. The development of technologies for satellite servicing and debris reduction is the primary goal of its space agency, CNSA. Innovative commercial entities are developing solutions such as iSpace and CAS Space. China's aspirational space exploration objectives and calculated investments in space technology support its efforts.
 

Japan, through its space agency JAXA, emphasizes satellite technology and space debris mitigation. It works with other countries on manufacturing debris removal technology and researching space debris. Japanese businesses, such as Astroscale, have demonstrated sophisticated capture and deorbiting capabilities. The nation’s efforts are motivated by its dedication to safe satellite constellation operations and sustainable space activities.
 

South Korea is rapidly advancing in space technology, with KARI leading efforts in satellite development and space debris monitoring. Technologies for space situational awareness and debris removal are being invested in by South Korean corporations such as Hanwha Systems. South Korea's increasing involvement in international efforts to reduce space debris is reflected in its emphasis on commercial space endeavors and space security.
 

Space Debris Removal Services Market Share

Astroscale and Northrop Grumman hold a significant share of over 20% in the market. The company specializes in end-of-life satellite services and active debris removal. Innovative technologies from Astroscale, such the ELSA-d mission, underscores its capability of deorbiting and capturing retired satellites.  Astroscale works with partners worldwide to develop debris removal systems, with an emphasis on operational safety and sustainability, reducing space debris and maintaining a sustainable space environment.
 

Northrop Grumman, based in the U.S., is a key player in satellite servicing and space debris removal. The Mission Extension Vehicle (MEV) and MEV-2 spacecraft, developed by the firm, are intended to increase the operational life of satellites by offering in-orbit service. Furthermore, Northrop Grumman is utilizing its experience in aerospace and military to create cutting-edge technology for debris mitigation and removal, improving the sustainability of space operations and safeguarding vital space assets.
 

Space Debris Removal Services Market Companies

Major players operating in the space debris removal services industry are:

• ALTIUS SPACE MACHINES
• ASTROSCALE
• AURORA PROPULSION TECHNOLOGIES OY
• CLEARSPACE
• DARK
• D-ORBIT
• KALL MORRIS INCORPORATED
• NORTHROP GRUMMAN
   

Space Debris Removal Services Industry News

• In April 2024, Astroscale successfully demonstrated its end-of-life Services by Astroscale-d (ELSA-d) mission, showcasing its capability to remove defunct satellites from orbit. The mission validated Astroscale's innovative capture and deorbiting technologies, marking a significant milestone in space debris removal efforts. Astroscale continues to lead in developing sustainable solutions for managing space debris and ensuring the long-term sustainability of space activities.
   
• In March 2024, Northrop Grumman announced the successful completion of its MEV-2 mission, which provided in-orbit servicing to extend the operational life of a customer satellite. This achievement underscores Northrop Grumman's leadership in satellite servicing technologies, offering cost-effective solutions to extend the lifespan of spacecraft and reduce space debris.
   

The space debris removal services market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecasts in terms of revenue (USD Million) from 2021 to 2032, for the following segments:

Click here to Buy Section of this Report

Market, By Debris size

• 1 mm to 1 cm
• 1 cm to 10 cm
• Greater than 10 cm

Market, By Orbit

• LEO
• GEO

Market, By Technique

• Direct debris removal broadband
  • Robotic arms
  • Harpoons and nets
  • Other direct debris removal techniques
• Indirect debris removal
  • Drag sail
  • Electrodynamic tether
  • Other indirect debris removal techniques

Market, By End Use

• Commercial
• Government

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • ANZ
  • Rest of Asia Pacific
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Rest of Latin America
• MEA
  • UAE
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa
  • Rest of MEA