This challenge addresses the long-term emerging need for green, compact and affordable de-orbiting solutions and in-space recycling of space debris.

Space systems and services in the EU are critical infrastructures that need to be better protected Still, the level of protection of space assets varies across Member States, and there is a need to expand the scope of EU actions.

In this context, the need to protect EU space infrastructure and continue to promote the preservation of a safe and secure space domain is essential.

The projects, supported under this challenge are expected to develop break-through concepts in one or more of the following areas:

• Game-changing technologies for controlled space debris mitigation (to reduce their generation) and active debris removal (by managing existing space debris, de-orbiting, relocation, etc.) including ones that prevent spacecraft system damage. This includes among others propellantless propulsion technologies such as space-based lasers, laser pushed lightsails, physical sweeper in orbit, laser electric propulsion, tethers or water propulsion for moving all sized debris
• In-space Recycling & Re-use of orbital assets- with a focus on recycling and re-using dysfunctional orbital assets. The overall aim is recycling, partial and/ or complete re-use of assets in-space.
• Game- changing innovations and innovative space applications for protecting EU space infrastructure that focus on concepts that enable detection, identification and avoidance of natural and human-made hazards in space.

Breakthrough ideas and concepts proposed under this challenge should be designed and validated in a laboratory environment. They should address “old” debris and active debris removal (ADR) including end-of-life (EoL) disposal. The concepts may also include debris mitigation measures to be integrated into the design of spacecrafts and launchers.