ADRIOS (Active Debris Removal/In-Orbit Servicing) is a European Space Agency (ESA) mission supported, aimed at developing technologies for the safe removal of large space debris and enabling in-orbit servicing. The mission, led by ClearSpace, targets the removal of an inactive ESA-owned object from low Earth orbit and is part of ESA’s broader Space Safety Programme to promote sustainable space operations.

Prerequisites:

• Identify and build relationships with international partners

• Lead agency & budget

• Procurement pathway

• Partner support as needed

Cost:

• Ballpark: USD 50k–250k (does not include cost for the fund)

• Includes: partnership setup, fund design and governance, technical assistance, monitoring & evaluation, administrative support. 

Timeframe:

• Overall: 24–48 mo

• Phase: partnership setup (6–12 mo), projects implementation (12–30 mo), evaluation (6–6 mo)

Pros:

• Risk Management through Cooperation - By partnering with other nations, the financial burden of research and development can be shared.

Considerations:

• Conflicting Interests - Divergent national interests and priorities may lead to conflicts.

• Articulation - Coordinating national timelines can be challenging and time-consuming.