https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/u-s-defense-agencies-tap-three-companies-for-satellite-disposal-studyContinuously updated, source-cited coverage. https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/u-s-defense-agencies-tap-three-companies-for-satellite-disposal-studyhttps://www.live-feeds.com/feed/u-s-defense-agencies-tap-three-companies-for-satellite-disposal-study#u44590Mon, 17 Aug 2026 21:30:49 +0000The US Department of Defense has awarded contracts to three companies - Firefly Aerospace, D-Orbit, and Katalyst - to study and develop satellite deorbiting technologies. The goal is to clear dead satellites from major Earth orbits. Firefly Aerospace has been tasked with designing an Elytra Deorbit System. The contracts are part of the Defense Innovation Unit's efforts to find innovative solutions for space sustainability.Why it mattersThe increasing number of satellites in Earth's orbit has raised concerns about space debris and the need for effective deorbiting technologies. The US