OneWeb, a global communications company, is committed to minimizing space debris and improving sustainability in the satellite industry. One of the ways they are achieving this is through the use of sustainable materials in their satellites.

Traditionally, satellites have been made with materials that are not environmentally friendly and can contribute to the accumulation of space debris. OneWeb is taking a different approach by using sustainable materials in their satellites, such as aluminum and carbon fiber.

Aluminum is a lightweight and durable material that is commonly used in the aerospace industry. OneWeb’s satellites are made with aluminum frames, which not only reduces the weight of the satellite but also makes it easier to recycle at the end of its life. Aluminum is a highly recyclable material, and using it in satellites reduces the amount of waste that is generated during the manufacturing process.

Carbon fiber is another sustainable material that OneWeb is using in their satellites. Carbon fiber is a strong and lightweight material that is commonly used in the aerospace industry. OneWeb’s satellites are made with carbon fiber composites, which provide strength and durability while also reducing the weight of the satellite. This reduces the amount of fuel needed to launch the satellite into orbit, which in turn reduces the environmental impact of the launch.

In addition to using sustainable materials in their satellites, OneWeb is also working to reduce the amount of space debris that is generated during the launch and operation of their satellites. One of the ways they are doing this is by designing their satellites to be easily deorbited at the end of their life.

When a satellite reaches the end of its life, it can become a piece of space debris if it is not properly deorbited. OneWeb’s satellites are designed to be easily deorbited, which means they can be safely brought back to Earth at the end of their life. This reduces the amount of space debris that is left in orbit, which in turn reduces the risk of collisions with other satellites and spacecraft.

OneWeb is also working with other companies and organizations in the satellite industry to develop best practices for minimizing space debris and improving sustainability. They are a member of the Space Safety Coalition, which is a group of companies and organizations that are committed to improving space safety and sustainability.

In conclusion, OneWeb’s use of sustainable materials in their satellites is a step towards minimizing space debris and improving sustainability in the satellite industry. By using materials such as aluminum and carbon fiber, OneWeb is reducing the environmental impact of satellite manufacturing and launch. They are also designing their satellites to be easily deorbited at the end of their life, which reduces the amount of space debris in orbit. OneWeb’s efforts are a positive contribution to the goal of achieving a sustainable and safe space environment.