Global Space Debris Removal Market Assessment, By Debris Size [1 mm to 1 cm, 1 cm to 10 cm, More Than 10 cm], By Orbit Type [Low Earth Orbit, Geostationary Orbit], By Removal Technology [Active Debris Removal, Laser Systems, Electrodynamic Tethers], By Re

Global space debris removal market is projected to witness a CARG of 25.36% during the forecast period 2025-2032, growing from USD 155.33 million in 2024 to USD 947.39 million in 2032, due to the growing satellite constellations such as SpaceX, Amazon, OneWeb, and more objects are in orbit on Earth than they had been a few years ago. These huge networks, consisting of thousands of small satellites, improve communications around the world and provide a variety of services, including internet access and tracking. However, because of the rapid growth of satellites, it has resulted in a high possibility of accidents and space waste. Currently, space debris removal services are essential to mitigate the hazards posed by orbital debris and to ensure safe, sustainable space operations in the future.

Currently, there are more than 30,000 space debris that are being tracked and recorded, their size is also more than 10cm. Also, millions of small pieces of debris are unable to be tracked due to their small size, ranging from 1cm to 10cm. There are different types of debris, such as rocket boosters, broken parts after collision, and no longer existent satellites, according to the European space agency. Additionally, companies in the market are planning to enter into a partnership with different agencies to support the mission and safely remove space debris.

For instance, in October 2024, the United Kingdom and New Zealand space agencies announced a partnership to take a significant step in enhancing space sustainability by signing a new agreement focused on space debris removal and satellite servicing. This collaboration, formalized at the International Astronautical Congress in Milan, aims to support missions in areas like in-orbit servicing, satellite refueling, and the safe removal of space debris.

Collaborations Between Players Introducing New Opportunities in the Market

Collaborations between various companies are crucial for tackling the challenge of space debris. These collaborations encompass partnerships between space agencies, private companies, universities, and research institutions to develop and implement solutions to mitigate the growing space debris problem. These collaborations foster innovation, share resources, and enable the development of new technologies for capturing and removing space debris, ultimately contributing to a safer and more sustainable space environment. Meanwhile, the commercial space sector is experiencing an explosion of startups and long-term businesses providing debris mitigation capabilities, creating a need for project managers, data analysts, and mission planners.

For instance, in January 2025, Kall Morris Inc. and Exosat Aerospace Industries announced their partnership to advance a space debris removal mission. This partnership will enable both companies to offer comprehensive Active Debris Removal solutions while taking on the growing challenges of orbital debris.

Technological Advancements in the Space Debris Removal Market

AI is the future of the space industry; companies are advancing their systems with AI technology. AI algorithm that includes machine learning and computer vision to identify, track and categorize space debris, even though they are small. AI can analyze and predict in advance about the collision so that the precautions can be taken. Robotic-powered arms are also being used, which are managed by AI itself to capture and dispose of the debris. AI also enables real-time data analysis, which allows adaptive and scalable debris removal strategies. The space debris removal market presents a significant opportunity for startups, especially those who are working on robotic systems that develop and offer advanced solutions, including robotic arms, autonomous navigation, and AI algorithms.

For instance, in May 2023, Airbus SE and Astroscale Holdings Inc. signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to explore collaboration opportunities in the field of on-servicing and space removal debris with the usage of advanced technologies. The partnership uplifts the strength and capabilities of both companies.

Low Earth Orbit Dominates the Space Debris Removal Market

Low Earth Orbit (LEO) ranges from 160 to 2,000 kilometers. This orbit is the primary focus area for every space agency and research institution, as this orbital region is the most congested and high-risk area in space. The low Earth orbit requires active debris removal technologies, creating different market growth opportunities for market players in the market. Several organizations, including the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), are actively working to remove debris. Firms that can create low-cost, effective active debris removal methods will dominate the market share. Additionally, collaborative partnerships between public agencies and private companies can bring even more extensive research and development capabilities, resulting in stronger debris removal systems.

For Instance, in May 2024, Digantara Research and Technologies Private Limited and Australia’s space machine company were granted USD 5.5 million (AUD 8.5 million) to enhance capabilities to track space debris and provide ‘roadside assistance in space’. The collaboration primarily focuses on enhancing Space Domain Awareness (SDA) capabilities and developing a robust in-orbit servicing ecosystem.

North America Dominates the Global Space Debris Removal Market

North America is the strongest region in the space industry due to the presence of several space agencies, space operators, and commercial firms. The growing awareness of space debris is increasing the demand for space removal technologies. As more satellites and other space objects are launched, the density of space debris is increasing in Earth’s orbit, hence increasing the market for space debris. The low Earth orbit segment is significantly experiencing market growth. North America is actively funding its space agencies and promoting them to bring new ideas and technologies to bring solutions to remove debris.

For instance, in September 2024, ClearSpace SA was chosen by the UK Space Agency to advance the CLEAR mission to the next stage, which brings them nearer to space and marks a significant milestone in the quest for agile debris removal services.

Impact of U.S. Tariffs on Space Debris Removal Market

Encourages Domestic Growth: Tariffs encourage space companies to manufacture components domestically, which will help reduce reliance on other countries.

Funds Debris Removal Effort: Income from tariffs can be used for research, development, and innovation of new removal ideas.

Potential Economic Burden: Tariffs increase the cost of satellite operators, launch systems, and operational expenses.

Limited Effectiveness Without Global Coordination: Space debris is not a problem of a particular country; it’s a global issue. Every country must contribute its technologies and research work; only then is it possible to clear our space, potentially leading to free riding behaviours.

Key Players Landscape and Outlook

Continuous innovation characterizes the landscape of space debris removal globally, as companies compete to outperform one another in terms of cost-effectiveness, energy efficiency, and unique features. The market prognosis remains positive, owing to increased demand for low Earth orbit debris removal, AI, and professional workloads. Space agency manufacturers are concerned with supply chain resilience, energy efficiency, and environmental practices, which will likely define the industry's future. Collaborations and developing technologies are projected to increase competition in this fast-paced market.

For Instance, in March 2025, Japan-based space debris company Astroscale Holdings Inc. tied up with India’s India-based space company Digantara Research and Technologies Private Limited and Bellatrix Aerospace to collaborate and services related to space debris.