EX-Fusion aims to revolutionize space waste cleanup with fusion lasers technology
Space debris from defunct satellites and rocket bodies poses a serious threat. Small fragments formed during high-speed orbital collisions can cause problems in working satellites or colliding spacecraft The current U.S. military maintains space debris beyond 10 cm. However, the expanded global participation in space operations has emphasized the need for small-scale debris management and removal.
In an ambitious effort, Osaka-based startup EX-Fusion is challenging the impossibility of removing small pieces of space junk using fusion lasers.
EX-Fusion distinguishes itself by adopting a ground-based approach, leveraging its laser technology initially developed for fusion power pursuits. The startup signed a memorandum of understanding in October with EOS Space Systems, an Australian contractor with expertise in detecting space debris.
The first phase involves placing a high-powered laser inside an observatory operated by EOS Space near Canberra. The focus is on setting up laser technology to track debris smaller than 10 cm, a size traditionally challenging to target from the ground.
In the second phase, EX-Fusion and EOS Space aim to enhance laser power to remove space debris. By intermittently firing the laser against the debris from the opposite direction of its travel, they plan to slow it down, causing it to enter the Earth’s atmosphere and burn up.
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