Modelling of the materials classification of in-orbit debris using DISCOSweb and other sources

Toomer, Chris; Bolouri, Amir; Thompson, Alex; Yalung, Francis

Abstract

Space debris is a topic of growing concern as the space industry evolves. This paper describes the findings of a new model used to classify the materials used in current orbital objects. It utilises data from sources including ESA’s DISCOS (Database and Information System Characterising Objects in Space) web to create a consistent and unified dataset which provides better understanding of the types of materials involved with orbital debris. As well as adding a material property to each piece of debris, the change in material properties over time due to degradation sources in orbit is included. The manufacturing methods used to produce these objects are also considered. The paper presents results from a variety of scenarios relating to debris removal and recycling.

• Presentation Conference Type: Conference Paper (unpublished)
• Conference Name: Reinventing Space 2021
• Start Date: Jun 28, 2021
• End Date: Jun 30, 2021
• Deposit Date: Jul 11, 2021
• Publicly Available Date: Jul 13, 2021
• Keywords: Space Debris Materials; Low Earth Orbit; DISCOSweb; Space Manufacturing.
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/7520732