menu Product safety for space Breadcrumb Home Safety Safety of our products Product safety for space From the production of spacecraft and satellites to their orbiting, operation and subsequent disposal after mission completion, Airbus is committed to designing safe systems. Reducing the risks from space assets Space debris is a major threat to the future of space operations in Earth orbit – from human spaceflight to the use of satellites for telecommunications relay, internet connectivity, scientific research, and observation of the planet. Airbus is pursuing clean-up solutions that range from modules and sails that can deorbit spacecraft at the end of their useful lives to nets and harpoons that capture space junk and non-responsive satellites. Such technologies were demonstrated during 2018-2019 with the RemoveDEBRIS orbiting platform, which was designed, built, and manufactured by a consortium of companies that included Airbus. In addition, Airbus satellites are designed with the necessary equipment and propellant to “clean” the orbit and not leave debris behind. Spacecraft are deliberately manoeuvred to burn up upon re-entry into the atmosphere – or are sent into graveyard orbit where no other satellites can cross their path. When re-entering the atmosphere, the trajectory is controlled so that potential spacecraft debris impacts uninhabited regions of Earth (usually the southeast Pacific Ocean region), to prevent any human casualties. Providing safety through space assets Space assets are key contributors to safety on Earth. From climate monitoring and the understanding of phenomena that disturb our planet, to using remote sensing in order to plan and manage humanitarian or natural crisis operations, to safe navigation and landing of airplanes, Earth would not be as safe as it is today without space assets. The quality of weather prediction relies largely on meteorological satellites made by Airbus. Additionally, the company’s space systems for defence communication contribute daily to the protection of populations all over the world. In the future, space technology will have the capability to change the trajectory of asteroids long before they cross the Earth’s path – a catastrophic threat for life and the planet’s climate. Airbus is participating in studies that will make such planetary defence systems feasible. Discover more about safety in our products Product safety for commercial aircraft We are committed to exceeding industry safety standards and supporting the safe operation of all our commercial aircraft and for those who fly aboard them. Learn more Product safety for helicopters The technological leadership of Airbus directly supports the safe operation of the company’s rotorcraft in missions around the world. Learn more Product safety for defence Airbus has implemented the Safety Management System (SMS) strategy for its military aircraft and unmanned aerial systems programmes to increase the safety of its products. Learn more Safety at Airbus People safety Learn more Safety in operations Learn more Safety investigations Learn more arrow_upward Back to top Footer menu Useful links About us Careers Investors Suppliers Newsroom Media Centre Modern Slavery Statement Topics in focus Innovation Sustainability Safety Orders & Deliveries Airbus Foundation Health Onboard Products and services Commercial Aircraft Helicopters Defence Space Security Airbus Corporate Jets Airbus Corporate Helicopters Specific websites Aircraft services Cybersecurity Intelligence Secure Communications Secure Land Communications Airbus around the world Worldwide Presence Airbus in the US Helicopter regional websites Other websites AirbusWorld AirbusWorld for Helicopters Brand centre Let's shop Airbus Legal navigation Terms of use Statement on Accessibility Contact us Privacy Information Notice 京公网安备 11011302002042号 京14011237号 Cookie Settings © Airbus 2021 Social navigation By clicking “Accept All Cookies” you agree to the storing of necessary cookies to enhance navigation and to make our site work. We also set optional analytics cookies (including third party cookies) to help us improve the site and enhance your user experience by analysing your usage of the site. Cookie Settings Reject All Accept All Cookies