Saber Astronautics has the long term vision that for every satellite launched to LEO, two objects (the main payload and a piece of existing space debris) should be brought back to Earth. The development of a cheap, compact, re-deployable drag sail or electrodynamic tether is a critical enabler to this vision, allowing for the controlled deorbit, rendezvous and docking and ultimate re-entry of both objects. The DragEN (Deployable for Recovery through Atmospheric Gravity ENtry) is a very simple, highly versatile spacecraft tether deployer used for responsible de-orbit at the end of a satellite mission. DragEN is compact and cost-effective, currently fitting picosatellites but can scale to microsatellite missions. With de-orbit times as low as 15 days DragEN is an elegant solution compared to conventional de-orbiting systems currently on the market. Potential NASA Applications (Limit 1500 characters, approximately 150 words) First, the ability to fly CubeSat class spacecraft at higher altitudes due to the ability to control deorbit and meet international space debris regulations. Second, utilizing the tether to perform research on upper atmospheric plasma and the space environment at altitudes not easily observed otherwise. Third, being able to rely upon a future deorbit service to ensure closed-loop safety of flight for a range of LEO missions. Potential Non-NASA Applications (Limit 1500 characters, approximately 150 words) First, a 3/4 reduction in cost for static DeOrbit solutions from $20K per unit, to $5K/per unit. Second, unlocking a secondary revenue stream as small satellites manufacturers can be paid by larger companies to cleanup orbital regions of high activity. Third, maintaining corporate, social responsibility by reducing space debris and ensuring the viability of space, for future generations.
