# ClearSpace

**Type:** Company  
**Domain:** space-development  
**Status:** Active  
**Founded:** Switzerland (ESA-backed startup)  
**Focus:** Active debris removal (ADR)

## Overview

ClearSpace is a Swiss startup backed by the European Space Agency (ESA) focused on active debris removal. The company is developing technology to physically capture and deorbit defunct satellites and space debris.

## Key Developments

- **2026-05-07** — Completed second phase of UK Space Agency's Active Debris Removal Mission (phase 2 completed May 2025)
- **2026** — Targeting first physical capture of a real space debris object
- **2026** — Competing with Astroscale for UK Space Agency contract to remove two defunct satellites
- **Contract** — ESA contract exceeding $103M for ClearSpace-1 mission

## Strategic Position

ClearSpace is one of two leading dedicated ADR companies globally (alongside Astroscale). The company's ESA backing and $103M+ contract represent significant government investment in ADR technology development. ClearSpace's 2026 target for first physical debris capture would mark a transition from demonstration to operational capability.

## Market Context

The ADR market is projected to grow from $1.2B in 2025 to $5.8B by 2034 (19.2% CAGR). However, current industry capacity falls far short of the ~60 large objects per year removal rate needed to achieve negative debris growth in LEO.