Astroscale, the market leader in satellite servicing and long-term sustainability across all orbits, has announced the opening of Astroscale France and a contract with the French national space agency, Centre National D’Etudes Spatiales (“CNES”). 

“Astroscale’s expansion into France and partnership with CNES mark a major step toward realizing a safe and sustainable space environment, and serve as a testament to France’s investment in space sustainability,” said Nobu Okada, Astroscale Founder and CEO. “Combining Astroscale’s on-orbit servicing leadership with CNES’s esteemed space heritage strengthens France’s role as a global leader in sustainable space policy and innovative technology.” 

The contract, to be signed on June 20 at the Paris Air Show in Le Bourget, formalizes a partnership between Astroscale France and CNES that includes a funded study for active debris removal of French space debris. The specific debris will be determined in early 2024.  

“This partnership with Astroscale aligns with our goals of ensuring long-term space sustainability and bolstering France’s leadership in the space sector,” said Philippe Baptiste, President of CNES. “We are pleased to fund this study, and together will drive innovation, foster international cooperation and actively contribute to the preservation of our space environment.” 

Astroscale France is incorporated in Paris and will establish a location for larger facilities soon, along with naming a Managing Director and announcing other key employees. Globally, Astroscale has expanded its workforce to meet customer demand and now has approximately 450 team members. Astroscale France is the latest addition to new facility openings and upgrades worldwide, including in the United Kingdom, the United States, Israel, and at the company’s global headquarters in Tokyo.