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Scientists are developing an electrostatic tractor beam to safely move dead satellites out of Earth’s orbit, thereby addressing the growing problem of space junk. With the commercial space industry booming, the number of satellites in Earth’s orbit is predicted to increase, which could lead to collisions and create a junkyard of debris. The electrostatic tractor beam aims to solve this problem by using electrostatic attraction to push the space junk out of harm’s way.

The concept of the tractor beam is inspired by science fiction films, but the real-life version is more realistic. The researchers use the electrostatic attraction between positively and negatively charged objects to make them stick together. They have been testing the electron gun on pieces of metal in the lab and firing negatively charged electrons at the dead target satellite. This gives the target a negative charge and allows it to be pulled out of orbit without physical contact.

The advantages of the electrostatic tractor beam over other proposed space junk removal methods include its touchless operation. Harpoons, giant nets, and physical docking systems can potentially damage the spacecraft and exacerbate the space junk problem. Using powerful magnets is another touchless method, but it is expensive and can interfere with the controls of the servicer spacecraft.

However, the electrostatic tractor beam has its limitations. The electrostatic attraction between the two spacecraft is weak, so the servicer would have to move slowly, taking more than a month to fully move a single satellite out of geostationary orbit. Despite this, scientists believe that if the financial hurdles can be overcome, the tractor beam could be operational within a decade.

The electrostatic tractor beam offers a promising solution to the space junk problem, but further research and development are needed to make it a viable option for removing dead satellites from Earth’s orbit.

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