The UK Space Agency is inviting firms to bid for a major new procurement contract, worth £75.6m, in an effort to tackle the “growing threat of space debris”.
The Active Debris Removal mission’s goal is to capture and safely de-orbit two non-functioning British satellites from low Earth orbit.
The agency said these defunct satellites currently pose threats to so essential services including GPS, weather forecasting and emergency communications.
According to the UK Space Agency, there are an estimated 140 million pieces of space debris smaller than 1cm and over 54,000 tracked objects larger than 10cm. Even the smallest of fragments can cause serious damage to satellites.
“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 Space Minister 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.”
The agency said its tender process would seek out “home-grown expertise” to support the growing British space economy, part of the government’s new Industrial Strategy.
It is an early example of a shift in the organisations approach from traditional grants to competitive private contracts in hopes of stimulating private investment.
The UK space sector currently generates as much as £18.9bn in annual income, employing more than 50,000 people.
UK Space Agency chief executive Dr Paul Bate added: “Actively clearing space debris is a bold step toward a safer, more sustainable orbital environment.
“This mission showcases the UK’s technical excellence and our commitment to protecting the space systems that modern life depends on.
“It’s about securing the future of space for everyone, delivering tangible benefits here on Earth, and positioning the UK at the forefront of the in-orbit services market.”
Read more: Record quarter for UK space sector adding £1bn to economy
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