DRUMS: Testing the Future of Space Debris Removal
As the number of objects orbiting Earth continues to grow, the risk of collisions increases, making the removal of space debris a critical priority for global space agencies. To address this challenge, the Debris Removal Unprecedented Micro-Satellite, known as DRUMS, was developed as a cutting-edge technology demonstration to test how spacecraft can safely interact with orbital junk.
Operated by Kawasaki Heavy Industries and contracted by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), DRUMS serves as a laboratory in orbit. Its primary goal is to validate proximity operations—the complex maneuvers required for a spacecraft to approach, navigate near, and eventually make contact with another object in space.
Key Facts
- Mission Name: Debris Removal Unprecedented Micro-Satellite (DRUMS)
- Operator: Kawasaki Heavy Industries
- Launch Date: November 9, 2021
- Launch Vehicle: Epsilon rocket
- Orbit Type: Sun-synchronous orbit (SSO)
- Primary Goal: Testing approach and contact maneuvers with space debris.
Mission Objectives and Technology
The DRUMS mission is designed to simulate a real-world debris capture scenario. To achieve this, the microsatellite carries two pieces of "mock space debris." Once deployed into space, these targets allow the satellite to demonstrate its ability to track, approach, and establish contact with non-cooperative objects.
These tests are essential for developing future missions that will remove actual defunct satellites or rocket stages, which often tumble unpredictably and pose a significant threat to active spacecraft.
Technical Specifications and Orbital Parameters
Launched from the Uchinoura Space Center, DRUMS is a lightweight spacecraft with a launch mass of 62 kg (137 lb). It operates in a Sun-synchronous orbit, a specific type of polar orbit that allows the satellite to pass over any given point of the Earth's surface at the same local solar time.
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| COSPAR ID | 2021-102E |
| SATCAT Number | 49399 |
| Perigee / Apogee Altitude | 560 km / 560 km |
| Inclination | 97.6° |
| Manufacturer | Kawasaki Heavy Industries |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary purpose of the DRUMS mission?
The primary purpose of DRUMS is to serve as a technology demonstration for proximity operations, specifically testing the ability to approach and contact space debris using mock targets.
Who is responsible for the operation of DRUMS?
The spacecraft is operated by Kawasaki Heavy Industries under a contract with JAXA.
What rocket was used to launch the satellite?
DRUMS was launched into orbit using the Epsilon rocket from the Uchinoura Space Center.
What is a Sun-synchronous orbit?
A Sun-synchronous orbit is a near-polar orbit that ensures the satellite maintains a constant angle relative to the Sun, providing consistent lighting conditions for imaging and operations.
How does DRUMS simulate debris removal?
The satellite carries two "mock space debris" objects which are deployed in orbit to act as targets for the satellite's approach and contact demonstrations.