Active Debris Removal (ELSA-M / ADRAS-J)

Astroscale is the world’s leading commercial company developing active debris removal (ADR) technology — the capability to physically capture defunct satellites and rocket bodies in orbit and deorbit them in a controlled manner to reduce collision risk. The company has conducted two landmark missions validating this technology.

ELSA-d (End-of-Life Services by Astroscale — demonstration) launched March 2021 and demonstrated magnetic capture of a client satellite in LEO, including intentional tumbling capture — a first in spaceflight history. ELSA-M is the follow-on commercial service vehicle designed to remove multiple satellites per mission, targeting commercial constellation operators (OneWeb, e.g., is a partner) who need to comply with ITU deorbit regulations.

ADRAS-J (Active Debris Removal by Astroscale Japan) launched February 2024 under contract with JAXA as part of Japan’s national debris removal program. ADRAS-J approached and characterized a defunct Japanese rocket upper stage (H-IIA rocket body in a ~570 km LEO orbit) — mapping its rotation rate, surface condition, and attitude without contact. This ‘inspection’ phase precedes a future removal mission. Astroscale is headquartered in Tokyo with offices in the UK, US, Israel, and Australia.