Israeli Teenager Proposes Innovative Space Debris Recycling Solution

Fifteen-year-old Ori Ben-Gur, a tenth-grader from Hod HaSharon, presented a novel method for clearing Earth's orbit of space debris at the COSPAR international conference. Collaborating with Lisa Vigil-Benitez from the U.S., Ben-Gur unveiled blueprints for a space debris recycling plant designed to recover metals and other materials, thereby reducing the cost of future space launches.

The concept was developed through Wolfpack, a program founded by American space entrepreneur Kevin Simmons, which mentors gifted students globally and aids in implementing their ideas. Ben-Gur joined the program at age 13, driven by a lifelong passion for space and astronomy. His mother, Imrit, noted the program's individualized approach, which contrasted with typical classroom-based activities.

Wolfpack, comprising about 40 students from various countries, conducts most of its work remotely, supplemented by in-person meetings. The program has already launched three Cube-Sat satellites. Ben-Gur's earlier contribution to Wolfpack involved an idea for a satellite system to provide earlier missile launch warnings, which he presented at a previous COSPAR conference in Cyprus.

At the recent COSPAR conference, which focused on space debris, Ben-Gur explained the dangers posed by even small fragments like paint chips due to their high orbital velocities. His proposed solution involves capturing debris and transporting it to an automated processing station. This station would sort materials, allowing metals to be melted and reused, and plastics to be converted into resins, fuel, or even medicine.

Ben-Gur envisions governments funding the project and purchasing the manufactured materials, with potential for future human operation. He acknowledged the challenges of presenting to experienced professionals, crediting his Wolfpack mentor and a private tutor for helping him refine his presentation skills and English proficiency.

As the sole Israeli participant in Wolfpack, Ben-Gur has largely avoided political issues, though he recalled a question at a previous conference about the impact on Gaza, which he deflected. Looking ahead, Ben-Gur aspires to work in the space industry, potentially with NASA or SpaceX, to contribute to significant global solutions like space debris management or missile defense. While hesitant about space travel itself, he expressed openness to it after completing his military service in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).