Clean Space

Orbits are getting dangerously crowded and collision risks increase rapidly. To have a future in space at all, we must stop adding space debris while we start cleaning up what’s already there.

ESA’s ambitious Zero Debris approach aims to stop creating new debris by 2030, with stringent standards and policies for its future missions that help stimulate technology development.

Clean space technologies go beyond debris prevention. The Ecostars missions demonstrate ecodesign technologies in space to prevent negative impacts on the Earth environment.

The end-goal of sustainable spaceflight is creating a true Circular Economy in space. Satellites should no longer be single-use, discarded after running low on fuel, a failure or outdated equipment. In-orbit services are the way forward.

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Explore

[ Clean Space ]

09 LOKA. 2026

Keeping the sky dark and quiet

For thousands of years, the night sky has inspired humanity, guided explorers and helped scientists unlock the mysteries of the Universe. As the number of satellites in orbit grows, their reflected light and radio frequency interference become a challenge for both professional astronomy and simple stargazing.

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[ Clean Space ]

23 SYYS. 2026

Unlocking the commercial potential of in-orbit servicing

As Europe works towards a more sustainable future in orbit, in-orbit servicing is becoming an important tool for extending the lifetime of satellites and supporting a circular economy in space. Through initiatives such as the Investor Forum and commercially driven missions like RISE, ESA is bringing together industry, investors and public institutions to help turn these technologies into viable commercial services and strengthen Europe’s leadership in space sustainability.

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[ Clean Space ]

16 SYYS. 2026

Europe commits to sustainable practices in space

How can Europe remain competitive and independent while ensuring that space stays safe and sustainable for all? At the International Space Summit, ESA worked with European and international partners to advance in-space operations and services, improve the long-term sustainability of space activities and support a global framework governing radio frequencies and satellite orbits.

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[ Space Debris ]

25 ELO. 2026

Recording its own demise: Draco’s design challenge

The European Space Agency’s Draco mission will measure and film its own fiery demise as it reenters the atmosphere. This raises the question: how can we still collect its data after such violent destruction? The answer involves a heat shield made of cork, a meticulously shaped capsule, zapping plasma through wind tunnels and parachute drop tests.

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