Active debris removal: How Indian space startups are building tech to clear orbit by 2030

Cosmoserve Space is developing technologies aimed at active debris removal and in-orbit servicing, aligning with India's stated goal for a debris-free space environment by 2030. The new Base 1 facility supports these efforts, housing infrastructure for designing, building, testing, and operating space robotics. Its specialized capabilities include orbital rendezvous and capture labs, space robotics innovation labs, microgravity simulation platforms, and satellite integration clean rooms.

The in-space test of "soft robotic petals" by Mission EMBRACE in July 2026 indicates a focus on developing specific mechanisms for interacting with objects in orbit. These petals could be designed for delicate capture, which is essential for securing space debris without causing further fragmentation or for handling satellites during servicing operations.

The company's strategy involves partnerships with other firms, including Pixel for satellite systems, Dhruv Aerospace Netherlands for propulsion, and Skyroot Aerospace for launch services. This collaborative model suggests an effort to integrate various specialized components to create complete space missions, combining internal robotics development with external expertise for satellite systems, propulsion, and launch capabilities.