The growing challenge of space debris poses significant risks to all nations involved in space exploration and satellite deployment. With the increasing number of satellites launched, the threat from debris is greater than ever. A Japanese startup, Star Signal Solutions, founded by Yota Iwaki, who previously worked at JAXA, is at the forefront of addressing this issue, offering innovative solutions to help organizations avoid collisions with space debris.
According to Mr. Iwaki, the accumulation of debris is alarming. He points out, "Currently, there are over 35,000 tracked objects larger than 10 centimeters, with more than 1 million pieces of smaller debris which can still cause catastrophic damage when moving at speeds greater than 7 kilometers per second — faster than a bullet." With over 5,800 satellites projected to be launched by 2030, Iwaki emphasizes the urgent need for preventative measures.
Space activities have dramatically increased, with the number of rocket launches rising from 214 ten years ago to 2,664 in 2023. More satellites mean more debris, and if even one collides with another, it can exponentially increase the amount of debris floating around, as seen with past incidents of collisions between U.S. and Russian satellites.
Japan's role as the world’s third-largest budget holder for space development necessitates it take the lead on creating international regulations for the sustainable use of outer space. Mr. Iwaki states, "Japan has historically focused on peaceful purposes for its rocket development, and it now faces the responsibility to set rules as more players enter this field."
A major contributor to solving this issue, according to Iwaki, is Star Signal Solutions. Leveraging JAXA technology, the startup aims to provide solutions to not only understand but to avoid debris collisions. They are currently developing systems focusing on collision avoidance, using data analytics to predict the trajectories of objects and facilitate the safe operation of satellites.
Mr. Iwaki believes strongly in the importance of laying down actionable guidelines for space activities. He's involved with establishing frameworks like the long-term sustainability (LTS) guidelines adopted by the UN, which address the issues of space debris and the risks of operational satellites. "These guidelines are our roadmap, but they lack legal binding authority. Enforcement relies on individual countries adopting them as their domestic laws," he explains.
Looking at actions taken so far, Iwaki mentions how the international community has set standards for decommissioning defunct satellites within specific time frames as one step toward proper debris management. For Japan, the launch of the Space Activity Law is pivotal. He notes, "It necessitates licenses for private enterprises engaging in space-related activities, ensuring compliance with both national and international standards. Violators can lose their operational licenses. This adds necessary oversight and responsibility to our space endeavors."
Despite these measures, Iwaki expresses concern about how debris continues to pose threats. He explains, "The absence of traffic laws and regulations for space complicates our capacity to protect the operational satellites from accumulating debris. Our service aims to fill in this gap. We allow satellite operators and relevant agencies to understand where potential collisions could happen and make informed decisions accordingly.”
The technology and market for solutions to space debris are rapidly growing. Star Signal Solutions is crafting their offerings carefully, ensuring user-friendliness and efficiency, driven by the principle of safe space exploration. Mr. Iwaki indicates, "Our objective is not merely to create technology but to transform it to user-friendly solutions suitable for well-informed decisions on space operations."
Star Signal Solutions embraces the entrepreneurial spirit necessary for innovatively establishing order within the chaotic expanses of space. Iwaki rationalizes this approach: "Once we identify and understand the dangers present, we can make informed decisions and even influence regulations effectively. The key is knowing where the risks lie and proactively creating solutions to address them before they escalate."
Looking forward, Mr. Iwaki envisions Star Signal Solutions playing a pivotal role as space operations become increasingly routine. He asserts, "The era when humans can freely navigate space, refuel rockets, and even recover debris is on the horizon. Our aspiration is to be the bedrock upon which future space endeavors can be safely and efficiently conducted.”
International cooperation will be pivotal as the world tackles the menace of space debris. With Japan's unique position and technological advancements, it has the potential to lead the way, fostering safer practices and effective regulation within this new frontier.
With startups like Star Signal Solutions spearheading innovative solutions and pushing for greater regulations, there is hope for the future of humanity’s ventures beyond Earth. But first, they must come together to address the looming threat of space debris before it becomes unsustainable.