Laser debris detumbling
A spacecraft-mounted laser that would gently push on a tumbling dead satellite or piece of debris to slow its spin, so a servicer can safely grab it.
Why it matters
Many dead satellites spin, which makes docking dangerous. Calming them from a distance without touching could open up far more targets to removal and servicing.
How the technology works
The laser is aimed at the target from a distance to slow its rotation without contact. Orbital Lasers develops compact space lasers and is studying, with France's Infinite Orbits, how to pair the technology with Infinite Orbits' servicing spacecraft.
No demonstration date has been announced.
Sources
Updated Oct 22, 2026 · How we source facts · Suggest a correction