Space-Debris Catcher Launcher

unclear if in use or still being developed

Chinese researchers have developed a small launcher that can capture space debris using a closed-gas, energy-absorbing mechanism to quietly propel a capsule containing a net toward targets in orbit. The device produces no smoke, flash, or significant vibration, allowing for precision operation without destabilizing the host spacecraft. Its primary mission is to combat space debris by enveloping and tethering debris to guide it into the atmosphere for burn-up on reentry. The launcher is compact, requires no external power, and can be mass-produced in standard factories. It also has potential military applications as a covert anti-satellite weapon.