EOS Space Systems has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with EX-Fusion to explore the usage of high-power laser technologies developed for laser fusion purposes to help address the space debris problem.
The signing took place during the fifth Japan-Australia Ministerial Economic Dialogue held on 8 October, co-chaired by Australia’s Minister for Trade and Tourism, Senator Don Farrell, and Japan’s Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, Nishimura Yasutoshi.
The increase of space debris around the Earth threatens to cause collisions with valuable space assets, impacting areas of telecommunications, finance, positioning, and navigation.
One solution is to use optical ground stations equipped with high-power laser systems to remove space debris or alter its orbit to prevent these catastrophic collisions.
"EOS Space Systems is delighted to be collaborating with EX-Fusion on this project. As a trusted and proven leader in debris laser ranging, space surveillance and space situational awareness, we recognise the threat that space debris poses to satellite missions," said James Bennett, Executive Vice President, EOS Space Systems.
"EX-Fusion's work in laser-powered nuclear fusion complements our expertise in lasers and presents the potential for innovative solutions to the space debris problem. This partnership not only addresses key technological challenges but also serves to strengthen the ties between Australia and Japan.”
The two companies will work together to investigate next-generation space debris tracking and clearing technologies by evaluating the usage of EX-Fusion’s high-power laser technologies for space debris tracking and clearing.
“Our strategy in Australia is to expand our business, with a particular focus on the wide range of applications for laser technology," said Kazuki Matsuo, President, EX-Fusion.
"Laser control equipment developed by EX-Fusion plays a central role in technological aspects such as laser communication in the space field and the tracking and removal of space debris using lasers.”