After 50 years of trashing space and ignoring the mess, the possibility of cleaning up the debris is finally starting to get serious attention. A few months ago DARPA began an initiative to study the removal of space debris.

In September, a Request for Information (RFI) was released soliciting ideas on the implementation of an orbital debris removal capability.

The RFI sought information from all "potential sources, domestic and foreign, on innovative technological solutions that will enable the Government to provide orbital debris removal capabilities and to identify interest and qualification for participation in any future program."

The objective was to view and assess the state-of-the-art concerning technical approaches to cost effective, innovative systems for debris removal. By October 30, DARPA had received submissions which will be evaluated. Those with the most promising may be asked to submit proposals through a Broad Area Announcement in 2010.

The second step comes this week with the DARPA/NASA sponsored International Conference on Orbital Debris Removal at the Westfields Marriott in Chantilly, Virginia, December 8-10. This will be the first opportunity to measure the level of international interest in the topic and to hear many ideas on how to approach debris removal.

Topics to be discussed include:

+ Understanding the Problem

+ A Solution Framework

+ Legal and Economic Issues/Incentives

+ Operational Concepts

+ Using Environmental Forces

+ Capturing Objects

+ Orbital Transfer Solutions

+ Technical Requirements

+ In Situ vs. Remote Solutions

+ Laser Systems

These subject areas cover much of the technical and programmatic aspects of the problem, with the obvious omission of what may be the most important topic: Who is the customer?