ISRO's 'Project Garuda' Aims to Clean Up Space Junk: Details

In a landmark mission, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) today announced 'Project Garuda,' an ambitious initiative to actively remove space debris from Earth's orbit. This project, unveiled at a press conference in Bengaluru earlier today, marks India's significant entry into the critical field of space debris management.

Space debris, or space junk, poses a growing threat to operational satellites and future space missions. This includes defunct satellites, discarded rocket stages, and fragments from collisions. ISRO Chairman, Dr. S. Somnath, stated that "Project Garuda is a crucial step in ensuring the long-term sustainability of space activities. We must protect our valuable space assets from the increasing threat of debris." He further added, "The mission aims to develop and demonstrate technologies for active debris removal, contributing to a safer space environment for all."

Project Garuda: Key Objectives and Technology

Project Garuda will employ a multi-pronged approach to tackle the space debris problem. The initial phase will focus on tracking and characterizing the debris population in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). Following this, ISRO plans to launch a dedicated spacecraft equipped with robotic arms and a net system to capture and de-orbit defunct satellites and large debris fragments.

The mission incorporates advanced technologies such as:

• Autonomous Rendezvous and Docking: The spacecraft will autonomously locate and approach targeted debris.
• Robotic Capture Mechanisms: Robotic arms and net systems will be used to safely capture debris.
• De-orbiting Propulsion System: A specialized propulsion system will ensure controlled re-entry and burn-up of the captured debris in Earth's atmosphere.

India's Space Debris Solution vs. Global Efforts

While several international organizations are working on space debris removal technologies, Project Garuda distinguishes itself through its focus on cost-effective and scalable solutions. reportersays that India's expertise in frugal engineering will be crucial in achieving the project's objectives. The mission will also leverage indigenous technologies, promoting self-reliance in this critical domain.

The European Space Agency (ESA) is also developing similar technologies, such as the ClearSpace-1 mission, which aims to capture a Vespa adapter. Project Garuda will benefit from these international efforts while also contributing unique solutions tailored to the specific challenges of the Indian space environment.

Availability and Estimated Cost of Project Garuda

The first phase of Project Garuda, involving debris tracking and characterization, is already underway. The launch of the debris removal spacecraft is tentatively scheduled for 2028. The estimated cost of the entire project is approximately ₹2,000 crore. The project is a collaboration between various ISRO centers and several Indian academic institutions.

This week's announcement has generated considerable excitement within the Indian scientific community. Dr. Ritu Karidhal Srivastava, a leading aerospace engineer, hailed Project Garuda as a "game-changer" for space sustainability. "This mission will not only protect our own space assets but also contribute to the global effort to maintain a clean and safe space environment," she said, speaking to News Reporter Live.