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* Home > Defence  > Solutions for Defence > Space > Space Environment Analysis and Protection > Space Debris *
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Space Debris

Space debris is defined as any object in space that is not functioning. This includes both naturally occurring meteoroids and the many, varied objects generated by the human exploration and exploitation of space. As the number and variety of spacecraft in Earth orbit increases, the effect of the first half-century of the space age on the near-Earth environment is undeniable.

QinetiQ boasts an experienced team at the forefront of research into the space debris environment and the role this environment has in the planning, development and operation of space missions. We offer expertise in modeling the debris population, determining collision risk, assessing mitigation measures and evaluating the survivability of unmanned spacecraft.
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Density hot spots in the centimetre debris population, now and 70 years into the future (QinetiQ IDES Model). High fidelity modeling of the evolution of the debris environment, illustrated on the left where the red colour indicates debris concentrations, is vital to develop understanding of the processes contributing to the on-orbit population.
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QinetiQ has a number of recognised models of the environment, covering altitudes from just a hundred kilometres out to the geosynchronous orbit. These models enable us to evaluate the effectiveness of proposed debris mitigation measures, which are designed to preserve near-Earth orbit for safe and economical use. QinetiQ can consider both the long-term effectiveness of debris mitigation and the specific requirements for particular missions.
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As the on-orbit population continues to grow, the chance of an operational satellite being hit by a piece of space debris correspondingly increases. QinetiQ can assess the collision risk to in-orbit space systems and subsequently evaluate the survivability of unmanned spacecraft designs. We are able to determine appropriate, cost-effective debris protection strategies.
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Experimental aluminium spacecraft panel (rear) after a hyper-velocity impact with a projectile less than a centimetre in size.
This photograph shows an experimental aluminium spacecraft panel (rear) after a hyper-velocity impact with a projectile less than a centimetre in size.
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QinetiQ provides expert advice to spacecraft designers, engineers and operators on the interaction of their space system with the debris environment. We have very strong links with industrial and academic research groups around the world and carry out a variety of debris studies for agencies such as the European Space Agency (ESA) and the British National Space Centre (BNSC).
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Through active participation in national and international working groups, such as the British Standards Institute, QinetiQ are fully aware of, and involved in, the discussion of current issues relating to space debris.
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