Low earth orbit is a mess, with a belt of debris presenting a risk of collision with spacecraft. Tokyo-based Astroscale is developing technology to collect the junk and send it on an incineration plunge through the atmosphere. Last year, the company launched a two-part satellite that separated and reconnected by magnets, demonstrating a debris-gathering technique. The company wants future satellites to carry magnetic docking ports to allow for collection. Astroscale’s vision, says CEO Nobu Okada, is “to make space sustainable.
A weekly newsletter featuring conversations with the world’s top CEOs, managers, and founders. Join the Leadership Brief.
More Must-Reads from TIME
- Why Trump’s Message Worked on Latino Men
- What Trump’s Win Could Mean for Housing
- The 100 Must-Read Books of 2024
- Sleep Doctors Share the 1 Tip That’s Changed Their Lives
- Column: Let’s Bring Back Romance
- What It’s Like to Have Long COVID As a Kid
- FX’s Say Nothing Is the Must-Watch Political Thriller of 2024
- Merle Bombardieri Is Helping People Make the Baby Decision