Dangling tape could be used to de-orbit old satellites

In order to at least begin addressing the growing problem of space debris, numerous groups are now looking into methods of de-orbiting satellites once their operational lives have ended. One of the latest approaches involves getting the spacecraft to dispense a long strip of sunlight-catching tape, instead of using their own propellant. The technology is being developed via the three-year European Union E.T.PACK project, led by Spain's Universidad Carlos III de Madrid. More

(Source: New Atlas - Jun 13)