Stratospheric balloon-based laser ablation system for space debris removal

STRATOLASER aims to strengthen the protection of EU space infrastructure by developing a breakthrough, cost-effective active debris removal system based on the de-orbiting of space debris ranging from a few centimeters to several tens of centimeters in size, using direct laser ablation technology fired from a stratospheric balloon. By eliminating atmospheric attenuation and scattering of the laser beam, the system drastically reduces the laser's power requirements, while offering a much lower cost, maintenance capacity, greater versatility, and wider orbital access compared to spaceborne solutions.This project will conduct the first experimental campaign to demonstrate proof-of-concept for stratospheric laser-ablative debris removal, achieving TRL 4 and establishing foundational technology. Using two stratospheric balloons—one with a debris fragment and the other with a small-scale pulsed laser and relay mirrors—experiments will monitor ablation under varied distances. Additional tests will involve laser scanning on orbital debris, focusing on signal return without reaching the ablation threshold due to power constraints. Complementary lab work will optimize the laser for stratospheric conditions, enhance UV conversion, and explore scalability. Mission analysis will evaluate post-ablation trajectories, aiming for a €2.5K cost per debris object removed.