When a satellite in Earth orbit stops responding, it becomes an uncontrolled object that continues drifting. These defunct satellites contribute to the growing issue of space debris. AVS, a Spanish engineering company, is leveraging its expertise in aerospace technology to develop solutions for retrieving these orbital hazards. The company has ambitious financial goals, projecting close to €40 million in revenue by 2026 under current exchange rates. A key part of their strategy involves the CAT project, which aims to demonstrate the feasibility of robotic systems capturing and removing non-functional satellites from orbit.
From Mars to orbital cleanup
Miguel Ángel Carrera co-founded AVS in 2006 alongside Jon Osorio, with the vision of creating tools to assist in scientific research. The company has since expanded to employ around 240 people and has executed projects across 26 countries. AVS achieved a significant milestone on February 18, 2021, when it played a role in the successful landing of NASA’s Perseverance rover on Mars.
The company contributed to the MEDA weather instrument and the calibration targets for SuperCam, which aid in analyzing Martian rock compositions. These contributions were vital components in an extensive mission.
The orbital junk problem
ESA reported on June 25, 2026, that approximately 46,070 objects are now consistently tracked in Earth's orbit. Over 660 incidents, including breakups and collisions, have worsened the situation. Even a fragment as small as a centimeter in width can significantly damage a spacecraft.
Satellites are essential for various applications, from weather forecasting and GPS navigation to broadband services and military surveillance. A single collision in orbit can lead to a chain reaction, generating more debris and creating challenges for the safe operation of new satellites.
AVS has developed a device known as MICE, which functions similarly to a car’s tow hook. Alongside six navigation aids, it enables another spacecraft to measure distance and movement accurately. The CAT spacecraft would then use the MICE system to capture and remove the satellite from orbit.
A business model built on complexity
In a 2025 interview, Carrera explained that AVS aims to target tenders with limited competition, typically involving only two or three companies. The company’s focus is on tackling the most complex tasks their clients require. Carrera told Cinco Días that they prioritize challenging projects over high-volume contracts.
Major science contracts often span over a decade, from initial award to final delivery. AVS has secured work through 2029 and now faces the challenge of managing this substantial growth effectively.
Beyond its space-related endeavors, AVS is also involved in fusion energy projects such as ITER and IFMIF-DONES in Spain. Additionally, the company contributes to cancer treatment technology and supplies essential equipment to major research centers. These diverse initiatives help mitigate risks beyond the space industry. Domestic work has become increasingly significant as international projects previously accounted for over 70% of AVS’s operations.
The space cleanup industry presents potential for expansion, incorporating services like satellite inspection, refueling, and debris removal. ESA and the European Commission now see in-orbit servicing as an approach to reduce waste and enhance Europe’s strategic independence.
The use of standardized interfaces such as MICE could reduce operational costs by ensuring compatibility across various satellites. ESA is integrating similar technology into future Copernicus missions, which are vital for environmental monitoring from space.