Aurora Propulsion to Remove Space Junk with Rocket Lab

Aurora Propulsion Technologies to Launch First Space Technology

Aurora Propulsion Technologies, a Finnish firm specializing in the development of thrusters and de-orbiting systems for small satellites, is preparing for its inaugural space mission. A contract has been secured with Rocket Lab to deploy their first AuroraSat-1 CubeSat into low Earth orbit. This launch is scheduled for the fourth quarter of the current year, utilizing a rideshare opportunity on an Electron rocket.

Addressing the Growing Problem of Space Debris

Aurora is among a select group of emerging companies focused on tackling a significant challenge: the increasing accumulation of space junk. This issue, often overlooked, poses a growing threat as space activity expands.

Orbital debris encompasses any non-functional, human-made object remaining in space. While the Department of Defense’s Space Surveillance Network currently tracks approximately 27,000 pieces of such debris, estimates suggest millions of fragments are orbiting Earth.

The Increasing Congestion of Low Earth Orbit

As launch costs and technology prices continue to decrease, low Earth orbit (LEO) is projected to become increasingly crowded. This heightened activity will likely result in a greater volume of unusable debris in the long run.

AuroraSat-1: Demonstrating Key Technologies

The upcoming launch with Rocket Lab provides Aurora with a crucial opportunity to validate its technology in a real space environment. AuroraSat-1 will be equipped with two distinct modules.

The first module features six resistojet thrusters. These are engineered to enable rapid de-tumbling and precise attitude control for CubeSats – essentially, managing the satellite’s orientation.

The second module will house Plasma Brakes, a system employing an electrically charged microtether to create drag, facilitating satellite de-orbiting.

Plasma Brake Implementation and Future Possibilities

According to Aurora CEO Roope Takala, Plasma Brakes are intended for pre-launch installation on satellites. However, the company is exploring collaborations to potentially install these systems on existing space debris.

“Preparing for de-orbiting is increasingly becoming a requirement for obtaining flight permits,” Takala explained to TechCrunch. “We are discussing with partners the possibility of in-orbit installation of Plasma Brakes to existing space junk.”

From Momentus to Rocket Lab: A Change in Plans

Originally, AuroraSat-1 was slated to launch aboard a Space X Falcon 9 rideshare mission facilitated by in-space transportation provider Momentus. However, this plan was suspended due to Momentus’ failure to secure approval from the Federal Aviation Administration.

“In light of Momentus’ difficulties, we had to re-manifest the satellite onto the now published Rocket Lab flight,” stated Takala. Aurora initially announced its partnership with Momentus for a launch in June 2022.

This article has been updated to include further insights from Aurora CEO Roope Takala.