Rapid Response Debris Removal Using Reconfigurable Space-Based Laser Networks

This research proposes a novel ADR concept using a network of reconfigurable space-based lasers for rapid response debris removal. A network of optimally placed multiple space-based lasers can cover a large volume of space at high spatiotemporal resolution as an inherent feature of a distributed multi-platform system. In addition, the space-based lasers can be closely coordinated to precisely control debris' deorbit/nudge trajectory, minimizing the conjunction of once-irradiated debris by leveraging its unique geometry and relative phasing of configurations to revisit the same debris at different times, distances, and angles. Furthermore, the proposed research efforts intend to apply recent advancements in satellite constellation reconfiguration methods to enable rapid response to high-priority conjunction events. The proposal aims to develop a suite of mathematical models and algorithms critical to enabling a reconfigurable space-based laser network.

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