Mechanics of Space Debris Removal: A Review
Mohammad Bigdeli, Rajat Srivastava, Michele Scaraggi
Abstract
The growing population of space debris poses a critical risk to space operations, requiring urgent removal strategies. Numerous scientific investigations have focused on debris capture mechanisms in Earth’s orbits, including contact and contact-less capturing methods. However, the known debris population exhibits a multiscale distribution with broad statistics concerning size, shape, etc., making any general-purpose removal approach challenging. This review examines the mechanics of debris detection, capture, and mitigation, analyzing contact-based and contactless removal techniques. Special focus is given to net capturing methods and their mechanical limitations.We also aim to provide comprehensive discussion, beginning with an overview of current debris statistics followed by detection and removal methods, by analyzing key mechanical parameters relevant to removal. Therefore, we delve into the key parameters essential for the engineering of novel debris removal technologies. Finally, we discuss the preventive measures, regulative frameworks and future research directions.