Airbus has developed a magnetic damping device called Detumbler to address the growing issue of space debris in Earth’s orbit. The device, weighing around 100 grams, is meant to be attached to satellites nearing the end of their lives. It uses magnets and a central rotor wheel to interact with Earth’s magnetic field, preventing unwanted motion when defunct satellites start to tumble. The Detumbler aims to keep satellites on a more predictable path to reduce the risk of collision with other spacecraft or uncontrolled reentries through Earth’s atmosphere. In early 2024, the device will be tested on the Exo-0 nanosatellite to demonstrate its detumbling capabilities.
| Signal | Change | 10y horizon | Driving force |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airbus creates Detumbler device for space debris | From uncontrolled space debris to controlled debris | Reduction in collisions and uncontrolled reentries | Increased risk of collisions and debris growth in space |