Japan-Based Startup Plans to Develop Laser Ablation Tech to Mitigate Debris

EX-Fusion, a Japan-based company is utilizing its laser technology, originally designed for fusion power, to begin mitigating space debris. They are collaborating with EOS Space Systems, a contractor based in Australia, to install a ground-based laser in an observatory outside Canberra.

The plan is divided into two seperate stages. First, the laser will be used to track debris smaller than 10cm. Second, it will be used to decelerate debris and induce its re-entry into Earth's atmosphere.

To address concerns about laser ablation, this new system would utilize diode-pumped, solid-state (DPSS) lasers, which differ from weapons-grade lasers associated with high-powered laser systems. It essentially will use pulsed energy to slow down debris.