Speaker
Jenny Kingston
(Cranfield University)
Description
In space recycling offers a sustainable solution to orbital debris. DEXTER, a four year EIC Pathfinder project launched in 2025, is developing technologies for harvesting, processing, and reusing inactive spacecraft. The modular robotic tools, vacuum compatible laser cutting and welding, and advanced sensing will enable semiautonomous extraction of debris materials, fostering a circular space economy by turning a hazard into a useful resource. DEXTER explores converting scrap aluminium into propellant and will demonstrate a prototype refuellable thruster to support long duration debris removal missions and future in orbit manufacturing. It will also demonstrate repurposing of recovered materials into new structures.
| Technical Domain | 6: UNDERSTAND AND MITIGATE ADVERSE CONSEQUENCES OF SPACE OBJECTS AND DEBRIS |
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Author
Jenny Kingston
(Cranfield University)