The UK Space Agency has launched a major new procurement process to tackle the growing threat of space debris, initiating a £75.6 million tender for the nation’s first mission to actively remove defunct satellites from orbit.
This marks a pivotal step in the UK’s efforts to protect vital space infrastructure and ensure the long-term safety of the orbital environment, the agency said in a statement on Thursday (3 July).
At the heart of the proposed Active Debris Removal (ADR) mission, a specially designed spacecraft, equipped with cutting-edge British robotic and autonomous navigation technology, will capture and safely de-orbit two non-functioning UK-licensed satellites from low Earth orbit.
The spacecraft will guide the defunct satellites into Earth’s atmosphere, where they will burn up, eliminating potential threats to the satellite networks that power essential services such as GPS, weather forecasting, and emergency communications.
There are an estimated 140 million pieces of space debris smaller than 1cm, and over 54,000 tracked objects larger than 10cm currently orbiting Earth. Even tiny fragments can cause catastrophic damage to satellites. This mission is a critical step in addressing the threat of space debris, ensuring the long-term sustainability of space operations and protecting the infrastructure that underpins modern life.
“This mission is a direct example of our Plan for Change in action, delivering innovation, sustainability and economic opportunity through bold investment in future technologies,” said Minister for Space Sir Chris Bryant.
“By tackling the growing threat of space debris head-on, we are protecting the infrastructure that supports everything from national security to everyday connectivity, whilst also creating high-skilled jobs and securing the UK’s leadership in the growing space economy,” he said.
The UK Space Agency is now seeking a single supplier to deliver the five-year research and development contract, with the mission targeted for launch by the end of 2028.
This follows £11 million already invested since 2021 in feasibility studies and design work, underscoring the government’s long-term commitment to becoming a clean space superpower.
The UK space sector employs 52,000 people, generating £18.9 billion in annual income and comprising a vibrant ecosystem of over 1,700 organisations.
With labour productivity 2.5 times the national average, the sector plays a vital role in delivering high-skilled jobs, driving R&D, and underpinning critical services that support 18% of UK GDP – from navigation and telecommunications to climate monitoring and national security.
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