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# Cosmic Water Fights
Ballistic Orbital Removal System Clears Space Debris With Fireman Approach

By Brian G Randles | Published 2009-10-01 | Science
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ballistic-orbital-removal-system
References: [treehugger](http://www.treehugger.com/files/2009/09/clearing-space-junk-from-earths-orbit-by-launching-water-at-it.php) & [x-journals](http://x-journals.com/2009/development-of-a-ballistic-orbital-debris-removal-system/)

The Ballistic Orbital Removal System, developed by [DARPA](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/darpa-1) (Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency), basically [shoots water](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/firedrone-by-empa) at space junk with the hope that the water will attach itself to said junk and bring it back down to earth.

I am no scientist, but I am a bit skeptical of applying the same system firemen use to douse burning buildings to clear space debris. At any rate, the amount of space debris within our planet’s orbit increased by about 50% since 2007, so DARPA is searching for new ways to clean up the stellar streets. Here’s hoping we get something better than the Ballistic Orbital Removal System.

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 1.7/10
- Popularity: 4% | Activity: 40% | Freshness: 8%
- Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women
- Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X
- Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia

## Categories

[Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Science](https://www.trendhunter.com/science)

## Key Themes

### What Makes This Trend Stand Out

- **Space Debris Removal:** Innovative technologies and approaches are needed to address the growing problem of space debris and its potential dangers.
- **Water-based Solutions:** The use of water as a tool for space debris removal presents an opportunity for innovation in the field of propulsion and materials science.
- **Advanced Space Research:** The continued exploration and study of space debris is important for developing effective solutions for maintaining a safe and sustainable space environment.

### Sectors Adopting This

- **Aerospace:** Aerospace companies can drive innovation in space debris removal through the development of new technologies and systems.
- **Propulsion:** Innovative propulsion systems can be developed to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of space debris removal.
- **Materials Science:** New materials and coatings can be developed to enhance the durability of space debris removal systems and improve their longevity.

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