Space Debris and Other Threats From Outer Space (5 page)

Other alternative concepts to address the mounting problem of space debris have also been proposed. One concept developed in another International Association for the Advancement of Space Safety (IAASS) study called for another mechanism for assured debris removal, an integrated development, operational and regulatory framework for space debris akin to an inter-governmental organization modeled on the intergovernmental agreement under which the early INTELSAT organization was created. This study envisioned the creation of INREMSAT (for International Removal, Maintenance and Servicing of Satellites).

Under this scenario INREMSAT-subscribing governments would be asked to sign a legal instrument (i.e., either a treaty or international agreement) to procure INREMSAT’s services for the removal of a number of existing “big” space debris (dead satellites, last stage rockets, rocket fairings used to shield satellites during launch, etc.) from Earth orbit. In addition the ten spacefaring countries would be required to make changes to their national space licensing rules to include an “assured removal” clause as a condition for obtaining a license to launch and operate a satellite regardless of whether they were to employ a national or foreign launch service. Such a clause would apply not only to the satellite but the upper stage of the launcher and its fairings.

The “assured removal” clause would further require that the operator demonstrate, subject to independent verification, that the satellite network in question had the capability (and specific plans) to perform autonomously at the end-of-life a safe controlled re-entry or it could be removed to a graveyard orbit. This study proposed that national governments, military systems and/or commercial organizations would contract with INREMSAT or a similar commercial service provider for such activity. Finally, the operator under this proposal would to commit to purchase an insurance policy in case a failure or malfunction occurred. In this case the insurance company would then procure and cover all costs of the relevant disposal service [15].

Regardless of whether a global debris fund or whether an international agreement or treaty along the lines of INREMSAT is implemented, the need for new international agreements and mechanisms are clearly needed to alleviate the escalating buildup of space debris that is clearly depicted in Fig. 
2.1
in
Chap. 2
.