ClearSpace, an in-orbit services company, and the European Space Agency (ESA) have begun work on the PRELUDE mission, a key step toward making routine satellite servicing and debris removal a reality in Europe. PRELUDE is designed to bridge the gap between technology demonstrations and fully operational in-orbit services.
Testing Satellite Servicing in Orbit
The mission is scheduled for launch in 2027. It will test advanced space manoeuvres and navigation technologies in real conditions in orbit. Two small spacecraft will fly and work together, performing complex movements with great precision. Using a mix of sensors and cameras, they will track each other accurately and move freely in any direction. In addition, the mission will help enable future tasks such as repairing satellites, extending their lifetimes, or safely removing them. This will support efforts to keep Earth’s orbits safer and more sustainable.
Focus on Safety and Fast Delivery
PRELUDE focuses on fast delivery and quickly demonstrating safe close-range operations in orbit. It aims to show how strong collaboration and efficient processes can improve space safety. Moreover, this approach highlights Europe’s commitment to advancing new technologies while meeting high operational and safety standards without unnecessary delays.
‘This mission shows how European partnerships can effectively demonstrate breakthrough technology in orbit and turn ambition into action,’ said Tiago Soares, Head of ESA’s Clean Space and Circular Economy Office. ‘It reinforces Europe’s leadership in sustainable and safe space operations, and paves the way for commercially viable in-orbit services.’
Building on ClearSpace Experience
For ClearSpace, PRELUDE builds directly on experience gained from the ongoing ClearSpace-1 debris-removal mission. The company continues to strengthen its role as a trusted industrial partner for ESA and national space agencies. This reflects the agility and persistence of Europe’s growing New Space sector.
From Demonstration to Operations
PRELUDE is a civilian mission that highlights Europe’s focus on open cooperation. Its modular architecture allows additional partners from industry and academia to take part, supporting broad European involvement and future commercial growth. Within a year of the mission’s completion, Prelude aims to enable a recurring in-orbit inspection service. This will mark a direct transition from technology demonstration to operational capability.
Published by Space Enthusiast
An amateur rocket enthusiast with a keen interest in all space-related activity. Looking forward to the day when the UK starts launching rockets into space and I’m able to watch launches (from a safe distance of course).