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About

Pedro Serra is a leading researcher in space debris mitigation and on-orbit servicing, with a primary focus on the validation of debris removal technologies. His most cited work, “On ground validation of debris removal technologies” (2018, 29 citations), provides critical experimental frameworks for testing capture and deorbiting systems before space deployment—a foundational step for active debris removal missions. Serra also made significant contributions to the COMRADE project, where he compared H∞ and nonlinear Lyapunov-based control approaches for combined robotic spacecraft and manipulator systems in servicing missions. This work addresses the dual challenge of extending satellite lifetimes and repairing damaged on-orbit assets, which offers substantial economic benefits for commercial operators and enhances the value of scientific missions. By tackling the control complexities of robotic servicing, Serra’s research directly supports reducing the growing population of space debris. His achievements are particularly notable for bridging ground-based validation with real-world orbital applications, making him a key figure in developing sustainable space operations.