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A low-budget satellite developed by a team of students and researchers at Brown University has returned to Earth earlier than expected, bringing positive results for the reduction of “space junk.” The satellite, named SBUDNIC, was launched on a SpaceX rocket in May 2022 and reentered Earth’s atmosphere just 445 days later.

With a budget of only ,000 and using common hardware store materials, such as 48 Energizer AA batteries, the Brown team developed SBUDNIC. In comparison, other low-orbit satellites like the 3U CubeSat require several million dollars to build. The primary purpose of the satellite was to collect temperature data and take photos, but its standout feature was its ability to descend back to Earth using a 3D-printed drag sail, avoiding becoming space debris.

Currently, there are over 27,000 inactive and abandoned spacecraft and debris orbiting the Earth, posing a threat to present and future space vehicles. The team aimed to create an affordable solution with SBUDNIC.

The results of the satellite’s return were encouraging. Its sail opened above the International Space Station’s orbit, enabling an early return. Selia Jindal, one of the project leaders and a recent Brown graduate, stated that the success of de-orbiting the satellite proved the feasibility of cost-effective methods to combat the space junk problem.

This accomplishment highlights the potential for significant plans to address the issue without incurring exorbitant costs. The Brown University team’s work contributes to the ongoing efforts to reduce space debris and improve the overall sustainability of space activities.

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