- ESA reports more than 250 signatories in 36 countries.
- Brazil signed on November 4; the charter’s horizon is 2030.
- Commitments do not establish completed debris removal.
ESA said on November 9 that its Zero Debris Charter has more than 250 signatories across 36 countries. The initiative sets goals for a zero-debris future by 2030; those signatures are commitments, not a count of objects removed from orbit.1
The Brazilian Space Agency signed in Brasília on November 4, according to its own announcement. Visiona and Safe On Orbit also joined. The photograph shows that signing, rather than an event held today.2
The charter brings together public agencies, companies and researchers. ESA describes its technical booklet as a practical to-do list for turning the ambition into engineering work.1
Brazil’s agency lists goals including fewer collision-generated fragments, better tracking and coordination, and proper disposal of spacecraft at the end of their lives.2
Bloomboff's take
Space has a rubbish problem and, increasingly, a sign-up sheet. The useful test is what gets designed, tracked and safely retired. A fancy signature cannot dodge a flying bolt.
