The Terminator Tether™

The Terminator Tether™ is a low-cost, low-mass device that will provide a reliable capability for removing satellites and upper stages from low-Earth orbit (LEO) when they have completed their missions. The Terminator Tether™ will provide a cost-

effective method for reducing the growth of space debris.

INNOVATION

Tethers Unlimited, Inc.Clinton, WA

SmallBusinessInnovation Research

GOVERNMENT/SCIENCE APPLICATIONS The Terminator Tether™ will provide NASA and Department of

Defense (DoD) operators of LEO spacecraft with a cost-effective method for complying with NASA Space Debris Mitigation Guidelines.

TUI will seek NASA certification for use of Terminator Tether™ on USG missions.

Marshall Space Flight Center12/10/99; Success Story #

The Terminator Tether™ Satellite Deorbit Device

ACCOMPLISHMENTS The Terminator Tether™ is currently in the development and early prototyping stage. TUI has raised approximately $100,000 in private investments in support of the

development of the Terminator Tether™.

COMMERCIALIZATION The device will be marketed under the trademarks Terminator Tether™ and Remora

Remover™. TUI has filed two patent applications related to the Terminator Tether™, with a total

of 63 claims. Primary customers will be LEO constellation satellite manufacturers. TUI plans to conduct a flight demonstration in 2003, and bring the device to market

soon thereafter. TUI has received endorsements from Teledesic, Boeing, Lockheed-Martin, Ellipso,

and Skybridge. Because the Terminator Tether™ does not require propellant, and because it is self-

powered, it has low mass requirements and can operate independently of the host spacecraft. Therefore, it can provide a unique, low-cost capability for disposing of spacecraft even after they have malfunctioned.

Contacts: MSFC, Tom Knight; 256-544-5353Tethers Unlimited, Inc., Dr. Robert P. Hoyt, 206-306-0400

1999 Phase II; NAS8-99092