Eco Space Mobility Projects
Astroscale France Contributed to ECO-tethers Project
Colin Smith — March 5, 2026
Astroscale France is participating in the ECO‑Tethers system study under the European Space Agency FIRST! programme, joining PERSEI Space as prime contractor and Thales Alenia Space Italy as a principal partner. The 12 month study will evaluate electrodynamic tether technologies as propellant free options for in‑space mobility and end of life disposal, with the objective of defining system level solutions that could enable compliant deorbiting and reduce long term debris generation.
Astroscale France’s role is framed around its expertise in in‑orbit servicing and debris mitigation, contributing operational and mission design perspectives to assess how tether systems might complement existing removal and servicing architectures. The study aims to inform technical feasibility, operational concepts, and potential benefits for in‑orbit servicing competitiveness by offering propellantless maneuvering and deorbiting capabilities, while identifying integration challenges and technology readiness requirements for future demonstrations.
