RSO Collection and Processing Station Optimization Analysis

To address the U.S. Space Force’s need for cost-effective active debris removal, Kall Morris Inc (KMI) is developing a deterministic optimization algorithm that provides the orbital parameters for an optimal collection point in which a processing space station could be placed. These parameters are vital to achieving widespread remediation of the orbital debris problem, as bringing multiple RSOs to an orbitally-close station will require significantly less propellant than deorbiting the RSOs, and as a result, will allow some of the largest detected RSOs to be captured by small and efficient spacecraft, in addition to supporting OSAM activities. This work was initially developed by KMI to a TRL 3 and this STTR Phase I will achieve TRL 6 with the support of the MIT ARCLab, Nanoracks, and ThinkOrbital. From the resulting orbital simulation of a collection station in operation, KMI will use Phase II to work with space station operators to design a collection station that is compatible with the required orbital conditions.