Riyadh: The Space Debris Conference 2026, slated for January 26-27 in Riyadh, will host the final round of the global "DebrisSolver" competition. This initiative, launched by the Saudi Space Agency (SSA), aims to stimulate scientific and technological innovation to address the challenges of space debris and enhance the sustainability of the space environment.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the competition has seen substantial international interest, drawing around 2,000 participants, including innovators, researchers, and startups from 40 countries. This highlights the global significance of space debris challenges and underscores the importance of coordinated international efforts to tackle them.
The DebrisSolver competition aims to attract high-quality ideas and innovative solutions that mitigate the risks posed by space debris. It focuses on enhancing the safety of space operations and supporting sustainability in low Earth orbit, utilizing orbital tools and data provided by specialized companies.
Following a rigorous evaluation process, the top 20 teams have been shortlisted for the final stage. Selected solutions will be presented as part of the conference's accompanying exhibition.
The competition is organized in partnership with several leading global companies specializing in space and debris-related technologies, including Astroscale, LeoLabs, Slingshot Aerospace, and Aldoria. This reflects effective collaboration between the public and private sectors in advancing applied innovation within the space sector.
DebrisSolver embodies Saudi Arabia's commitment to supporting research and innovation, empowering global talent, and promoting technological solutions in protecting space as a shared resource for humanity. It aims to contribute to a safe and sustainable space future and support the growth of the global space economy.