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It could actually create a circular space economy.
A new scientific review is urging the space sector to rethink the way rockets, satellites, and orbiting hardware are designed and retired.
Researchers warn that without major changes, every mission will continue to scatter valuable materials into orbit while adding to harmful emissions.
Their study in the Cell Press journal Chem Circularity outlines an emerging vision for a circular economy beyond Earth.
Launch impacts
The authors note that each rocket flight sends irreplaceable materials out of reach and contributes significant greenhouse gases and ozone-depleting chemicals.
According to the study, most spacecraft still end their lives abandoned, either drifting as debris or parked indefinitely in “graveyard” orbits.
In an article from University of Surry, lead author Jin Xuan said that the sector is growing too quickly to repeat past environmental patterns on Earth. “As space activity accelerates, from mega-constellations of satellites to future lunar and Mars missions, we must make sure exploration doesn’t repeat the mistakes made on Earth,” Xuan said.
Rethinking satellites
The team argues that the rapid surge in commercial missions makes the current system untenable.
They point to other industries, including consumer tech and automotive manufacturing, where circular design has already reshaped how products are built and recycled.
Xuan said the goal was to bring overdue attention to circularity in orbit, noting that “circular economy thinking is transforming materials and manufacturing on Earth, but it’s rarely applied to satellites, rockets, or space habitats.”
Reduce, reuse, recycle
According to ScienceDaily, the study outlines a framework anchored in the familiar “3 Rs”: Reduce, reuse, recycle.
Longer-lasting spacecraft, designed for in-orbit repairs, would slow the flow of discarded hardware.
Space stations could evolve into multifunctional hubs where vehicles refuel, receive maintenance, or even acquire new components made on site — a shift that would also reduce launch demand.
Another priority is developing reliable recovery systems so spacecraft or stations can return safely for reuse.
But the authors stress that parts exposed to radiation and extreme temperatures would require rigorous testing before being put back into service.
Tackling debris
The researchers also support active debris-removal efforts, suggesting robotic arms or nets to gather fragments for recycling. Such systems could help avert collisions that generate additional hazardous debris.
Data-driven design is expected to play a key role. Real-time information from spacecraft could guide more sustainable engineering choices, while simulations may reduce the need for resource-heavy testing.
The authors add that artificial intelligence could improve autonomous avoidance of floating debris.
A system-wide shift
The report calls for a transformation across the entire space ecosystem, from materials and modular designs to end-of-life planning.
“We need innovation at every level,” Xuan said, adding that international policy and coordination will be essential to make reuse and recovery standard practice.
He emphasized the need to link chemistry, engineering and governance so that sustainability becomes “the default model for space.”
Sources: ScienceDaily, Cell Press
