Green Toolkit for Space
High

Fragmentation from residual fuel

Residual propellant remaining in decommissioned satellites can cause explosions, generating significant debris fields.
ISO 24113 — Space Debris Mitigation International
ISO 24113 — Space Debris Mitigation Technical

This document defines the primary space debris mitigation requirements applicable to all elements of unmanned systems launched into, or passing through, near-Earth space, including launch vehicle orbital stages, operating spacecraft and any objects released as part of normal operations.

Issuing body
ISO
Jurisdiction
International
Date published
1 May 2023
Open source (opens in a new tab)
UN Space Debris Mitigation Guidelines International
UN Space Debris Mitigation Guidelines Policy
United Nations guidelines for mitigating space debris in Earth orbits.
Jurisdiction
International
Open source (opens in a new tab)
Components
Fuel Cells Propulsion System
Lifecycle Stages
End of Life
Environmental Concerns
Space Debris Generation

Obligations (2)

Comply with UN Space Debris Mitigation Guidelines

High
Operators must design missions to limit debris generation during normal operations, minimise breakup potential, and ensure post-mission disposal within 25 years.
UN Space Debris Mitigation Guidelines International
UN Space Debris Mitigation Guidelines Policy
United Nations guidelines for mitigating space debris in Earth orbits.
Jurisdiction
International
Open source (opens in a new tab)

End-of-life passivation requirement

High
Satellites must be passivated at end of life — all stored energy sources (batteries, fuel, pressurised systems) must be depleted to prevent accidental explosions.
ISO 24113 — Space Debris Mitigation International
ISO 24113 — Space Debris Mitigation Technical

This document defines the primary space debris mitigation requirements applicable to all elements of unmanned systems launched into, or passing through, near-Earth space, including launch vehicle orbital stages, operating spacecraft and any objects released as part of normal operations.

Issuing body
ISO
Jurisdiction
International
Date published
1 May 2023
Open source (opens in a new tab)
UN Space Debris Mitigation Guidelines International
UN Space Debris Mitigation Guidelines Policy
United Nations guidelines for mitigating space debris in Earth orbits.
Jurisdiction
International
Open source (opens in a new tab)

Opportunities (1)

Green propellant adoption

High

Transition to non-toxic propellants such as AF-M315E or LMP-103S to eliminate hydrazine-related risks and simplify handling procedures, reducing costs and environmental impact.

ESA Clean Space Initiative EU
ESA Clean Space Initiative Policy
European Space Agency programme targeting environmental sustainability in space activities.
Jurisdiction
EU
Open source (opens in a new tab)