Japanese space startup Orbital Lasers and Indian robotics company InspeCity have agreed to jointly explore the use of laser-equipped satellites to address the growing issue of space debris. The initiative represents an innovative approach to mitigating orbital congestion, which has become an increasingly pressing global concern.
The two companies announced plans to study business opportunities for in-space services, including de-orbiting defunct satellites and extending the operational lifespan of spacecraft. Tokyo-based Orbital Lasers, a spin-off from Japanese satellite giant SKY Perfect JSAT, is developing a cutting-edge system that uses laser energy to vaporize parts of space debris. This process stops the rotation of debris, making it easier for a servicing spacecraft to remove it from orbit.
"We aim to demonstrate this technology in space by 2027 and make it available to operators thereafter," said Aditya Baraskar, global business lead at Orbital Lasers. The system could potentially be integrated into InspeCity’s satellites, subject to regulatory approvals in Japan and India.
Founded in 2022, InspeCity raised $1.5 million last year, while Orbital Lasers has secured 900 million yen ($5.8 million) since its establishment in January 2024. Their partnership signifies a growing trend of Indo-Japanese collaboration in space technology, which has also seen other Indian companies, such as Skyroot and HEX20, partnering with Japanese lunar exploration firm ispace on future missions.
The joint efforts come amid heightened global awareness of the need for effective space traffic management. A United Nations panel on space traffic coordination recently emphasized the urgency of addressing the risks posed by increasing satellites and debris in low Earth orbit.
Masayasu Ishida, CEO of Tokyo-based nonprofit SPACETIDE, which has facilitated space business conferences since 2015, highlighted the strategic alignment between the two nations. "The key lies in identifying complementary relationships that align with national policies like India’s 'Make in India' initiative," Ishida said. Japanese satellite data solutions, already aiding India’s disaster management and agricultural sectors, provide a strong foundation for expanding collaborations into manufacturing and other areas.
This pioneering partnership could not only tackle the critical challenge of space debris but also set the stage for deeper commercial ties between Japan and India in the burgeoning space industry.