Researchers propose a $200,000 refundable pre-launch bond for satellite operators to reduce dangerous orbital space debris.

Researchers have proposed a refundable deposit system to force satellite operators to clean up dead spacecraft and prevent orbital collisions. The plan aims to counter the growing accumulation of space debris before it triggers a dangerous cascade known as the Kessler Syndrome.

Published last month in Nature Communications, the proposal requires satellite operators to post a $200,000 bond per spacecraft before launch. The bond would be refunded with interest if the operator successfully deorbits the satellite, while abandoned debris would forfeit the money to fund active cleanup missions.

Lead author Indigo Brownhall and co-author Daniel Kaffine estimate that covering just 20 percent of global launches could reduce derelict satellites by 18 percent and raise billions of dollars. Current international guidelines ask operators to clear dead satellites within 25 years, and the U.S.

Federal Communications Commission enforces a stricter five-year rule for low Earth orbit. However, the researchers note that 60 percent of satellites remain in orbit after running out of propellant because there are no financial consequences for leaving them behind. Enforcing global rules is difficult due to requirements for unanimous agreement by United Nations committees. To bypass this hurdle, the authors suggest the policy be adopted on a national