Elevate Systems' Venture into Space: U.S. Space Force

In the realm of space exploration and technology, Elevate Systems is making waves with an innovative project that aims to tackle one of the most pressing issues of our time - space debris, or as it's colloquially known, "space trash". Working under a Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) contract, which involves partnerships with academic or research institutions, Elevate Systems embarked on a pioneering journey with the United States Space Force's On-Orbit Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing (OSAM) program.

Space trash, consisting of defunct satellites, spent rocket parts, and other discarded materials orbiting the Earth, presents a significant challenge. This floating debris not only creates navigational hazards for satellites and manned missions, but it also represents a waste of valuable materials that were once launched into space at considerable cost.

Elevate Systems' innovative solution sought to address this issue head-on. The concept involved launching a robotic spacecraft that could gather this space trash and bring it to a base station in orbit. Rather than viewing this debris as a problem, Elevate Systems envisioned it as a resource. The gathered material would be recycled into metal wire or metal powder, which could then be used for 3D metal printing in space. What makes this initiative truly remarkable is that all these processes would occur in space, negating the need to return to Earth.

In conclusion, the project highlighted the vital role that innovative thinking and advanced technology can play in addressing challenges within the space industry. By turning space debris into a valuable resource, Elevate Systems is not only tackling a significant problem head-on, but also paving the way for a more sustainable and resource-efficient future in space exploration.