Spire > Case Studies > Revolutionising Space Sustainability: ADLER-2's Innovative Approach to Tackling Space Debris

Revolutionising Space Sustainability: ADLER-2's Innovative Approach to Tackling Space Debris

Technology Category

Cybersecurity & Privacy - Intrusion Detection
Networks & Connectivity - Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS)

Applicable Industries

Cement
Telecommunications

Use Cases

Counterfeit Product Identification
Fraud Detection

About The Customer

The customer in this case is the Austrian Space Forum (OeWF), a national space organization that focuses on space research and technology. They have partnered with Spire, a data and analytics company that collects data from space to solve problems on Earth. Together, they have launched ADLER-2, a second-generation in-orbit space debris detector. This project is a part of their mission to tackle the growing problem of space debris and ensure the sustainability of space exploration. The ADLER-2 project is a testament to their commitment to innovation and collaboration in the field of space technology.

The Challenge

The increasing space activity has led to a surge in the amount of debris in Earth’s orbit. This debris poses a significant threat to the satellites that power much of modern life and future space exploration. The challenge lies in accurately monitoring and analysing orbiting space debris and junk in real-time, especially the small fragments that can pose a threat to satellites and astronauts. The current methods of monitoring, which include using second-hand sources, computer models, and optical detectors, are limited in their effectiveness and scope. The need for a more efficient and accurate system to track and analyse space debris is evident.

The Solution

In response to this challenge, the Austrian Space Forum (OeWF) and Spire have collaborated to develop ADLER-2, a second-generation in-orbit space debris detector. This innovative solution leverages nanosatellite technologies and is expected to increase the debris detection rate by 80%, supplementing existing computer models. Spire’s ‘Space as a Service’ option is a key feature of this project, eliminating the high upfront cost of building and maintaining space infrastructure. The ADLER-2 will carry a remote sensing payload to study clouds and aerosols in the atmosphere and track micro space debris in Earth orbit at an altitude of around 500 km. This innovative approach aims to provide a more accurate and comprehensive understanding of space debris.

Operational Impact

The ADLER-2 project is a world-leading solution for the accurate monitoring of space debris. It offers a fully flexible 'Space as a Service' option, providing a ready-to-go orbiting platform for state-of-the-art data gathering technology. This eliminates the need for developing costly and time-consuming in-orbit infrastructure. The project is expected to provide a more precise picture of space debris in Earth orbit, contributing significantly to space situational awareness. Furthermore, the ADLER-2 nanosatellite will also carry a remote sensing payload to study clouds and aerosols in the atmosphere. The project is a successful example of cooperation between companies and research organisations, each delivering on their specialist element to form a powerful combination.

Quantitative Benefit

ADLER-2 is expected to increase the debris detection rate by 80%.
The innovative debris detection radar is predicted to double the number of observations logged.
The project eliminates the high upfront cost of building and maintaining space infrastructure.