Swatch: Omega returns to space to participate in a space-cleaning mission

Omega is teaming up with startup ClearSpace on a groundbreaking mission: to clean up or eliminate dangerous space projectiles.

The watchmaker behind the first moon-touching watch is preparing to return to space, but this time it will take part in a unique cleaning mission of paramount importance. Indeed, Omega is preparing to write a new chapter in its fascinating history, which began in 1965, when the Speedmaster received the exclusive approval granted by NASA to support all manned space missions.

In the purest pioneering spirit of Maison Benoise, Omega is collaborating with ClearSpace to participate in the first seizure and first out of orbit, a controlled entry into the atmosphere of a roaming satellite element: it’s a launchpad. projects. The stated ambition is to pave the way for new affordable orbit cleaning services.

Today, thousands of satellites orbit the Earth. Most of these devices did not fulfill their mission and were scattered and reduced to wreckage. These uncontrolled projectiles present a danger of exploding, or even colliding with other satellites. There is no doubt that the next great challenge for humanity will be keeping space clean and thus securing a sustainable future. It is Omega’s pride to be part of the pioneering team – and the solution.

Raynald Aeschlimann, President and CEO of Omega, described the partnership in these terms: “Obviously, the next logical step for a brand whose commitment and legacy is inextricably linked to space exploration and the preservation of our planet. He describes the ClearSpace Initiative as one of the most important, inspiring and exciting projects since the launch of Missions Apollo”.

Venturing outside of watchmaking paths is no precedent for Omega, especially if it allows it to encourage positive change. Omega’s partnership with the GoodPlanet Foundation, and its initiator Yann Arthus-Bertrand, has led to the production of several documentaries and the realization of joint conservation projects under the “Time for the Planet” entity. Omega also supports Nekton, a nonprofit research organization committed to protecting the world’s oceans.

Omega is investing on several fronts. In addition to contributing to the clean-up of the land and the sea, it is involved in mapping the sea floor by supporting the Five Depths Expeditions – unprecedented missions to discover the immense depths of the Five Oceans, led by man Victor Veskovo of all records.

With its existing partnerships and recently announced support for ClearSpace, the Swiss watchmaker reaffirms its commitment to creating a sustainable future. He extends the reach of his actions from the bottom of the sea and the surface of the planet to the most remote and crowded corners of space.

Suggestion de ClearSpace

ClearSpace SA develops technologies to capture and eject unused satellites and space debris that threaten space operations. They provide in-orbit services and provide institutions and commercial operators with the long-term sustainability of spaceflight. In 2020, ClearSpace signed a service contract with the European Space Agency (ESA) in the amount of 86 million euros to pilot the first space debris removal mission in 2025.