Since the beginning of space exploration in 1957, rocket launches and explosions have caused an alarming amount of debris to surround the Earth. Not only does this junk pose a threat to existing space missions but also to future plans. Debris moving at a speed of about 28,000 kmph can cause grave damage to the hundreds of satellites, communication systems and manned-vehicles stationed in space and require millions of dollars and man power to rebuild.
In 2025, the European Space Agency plans to send a debris recovery vehicle that would extent its arms, pick up debris and effectively de-orbit them.
