This space technology could quietly change how we clean up Earth’s orbit

Space junk poses a growing threat to vital satellite services. Scientists at CU Boulder are developing an electrostatic tractor beam, a non-contact technology that gently nudges debris to de-orbit. This innovative approach, inspired by science fiction but grounded in physics, offers a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional cleanup methods, potentially revolutionizing orbital debris management.

This space technology could quietly change how we clean up Earth’s orbit
Space junk poses a growing threat to vital satellite services. Scientists at CU Boulder are developing an electrostatic tractor beam, a non-contact technology that gently nudges debris to de-orbit. This innovative approach, inspired by science fiction but grounded in physics, offers a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional cleanup methods, potentially revolutionizing orbital debris management.