EOS and EX-Fusion sign MOU to tackle space debris

EOS Space Systems, a trusted and proven leader in delivering unique optical surveillance capabilities for space situational awareness and satellite safety of flight, has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with EX-Fusion, a Japanese start-up at the forefront of laser fusion technology.

The agreement was signed on October 8 during the fifth Japan-Australia Ministerial Economic Dialogue, which was co-chaired by Australia's Minister for Trade and Tourism, Senator the Hon Don Farrell, and Japan's Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry, His Excellency Mr Nishimura Yasutoshi.

Through this arrangement, EOS Space Systems and EX-Fusion hope to enhance their relationship. They will specifically investigate the use of high-power laser technology developed for laser fusion applications to assist in addressing the space debris problem.

In recent years, there has been a considerable rise in the amount of space debris orbiting the Earth, threatening to collide with important space assets critical to contemporary life on Earth, including as telecommunications, finance, location, and navigation. One technique for reducing space debris is to employ optical ground stations equipped with high-power laser systems to remove space junk or adjust its trajectory to avoid catastrophic collisions.

Existing EOS Space Systems capabilities include optical tracking and laser ranging of space junk circling the Earth, as well as expertise in prior programs trying to manoeuvre space debris using ground-based lasers.

EX-Fusion also has experience with high-power lasers, which will be used to build and power the world's first laser fusion reactor. By examining the use of Ex-Fusion's high-power laser technology for space debris tracking and clearing, the two businesses will collaborate to study next-generation space debris tracking and clearing solutions.

"EOS Space Systems is delighted to be collaborating with EX-Fusion on this project," stated James Bennett, Executive Vice President of EOS Space Systems. We recognize the threat that space debris poses to satellite missions as a trusted and established leader in debris laser ranging, space surveillance, and space situational awareness-Fusion's work in laser-powered nuclear fusion complements our laser expertise and offers the possibility of novel solutions to the space debris problem.

This collaboration not only solves significant technological difficulties, but it also strengthens relations between Australia and Japan."

"Our strategy in Australia is to expand our business, with a particular focus on the wide range of applications for laser technology," stated Kazuki Matsuo, President of EX-Fusion. EX-Fusion's laser control technology is crucial in technical areas such as laser communication in space and the tracking and removal of space trash using lasers. We are also investigating further uses for laser technology and feel that these areas have great commercial potential."