Space Debris Exposure Rating (SDER)
A transparent risk rating system that assesses satellite debris footprint, incentivizes sustainable design, and adjusts SDC credit requirements through a bonus-malus mechanism.
Key Metrics
Multi-Tier System
Comprehensive rating scale differentiating risk levels for sustainable operations
Risk-Based Approach
Incentivizing sustainability through transparent assessment and market mechanisms
Market Integration
Direct impact on SDC credit requirements through bonus-malus adjustments
What is SDER?
The Space Debris Exposure Rating (SDER) is a risk assessment framework that quantifies the orbital debris footprint of satellite operations. By evaluating multiple factors—from satellite design to operational practices—SDER creates transparent, comparable ratings that influence SDC credit requirements and incentivize sustainable space activities.
Risk Quantification
SDER measures debris exposure through comprehensive assessment of satellite characteristics, orbital parameters, and operational practices. This creates objective, comparable risk profiles that inform market participants and regulators.
Market Integration
SDER ratings directly influence SDC credit requirements through a bonus-malus system. Better ratings reduce compliance costs, while higher-risk operations face increased requirements—creating powerful economic incentives for sustainability.
Continuous Improvement
Dynamic ratings reward operators who improve their practices over time. Regular assessments track operational performance, encouraging ongoing investment in sustainable technologies and responsible space operations.
Rating Methodology
While the final methodology is still being refined, the rating system will consider multiple risk factors across satellite design, operations, and compliance history.
Physical Characteristics
Satellite mass, size, and design features affecting debris generation potential and collision cross-section.
Orbital Parameters
Altitude, inclination, and orbital regime affecting debris persistence and collision probability zones.
End-of-Life Planning
Disposal capability, deorbit system reliability, and compliance with international disposal guidelines.
Operational Practices
Collision avoidance capabilities, tracking participation, and coordination with space situational awareness networks.
Track Record
Operator compliance history, previous mission outcomes, and demonstrated commitment to sustainability.
Additional Factors
Mission duration, propulsion systems, material choices, and other design and operational considerations.
Conceptual Assessment Framework: Physical Characteristics → Orbital Parameters → End-of-Life Planning → Operational Practices → Track Record → Multi-Factor Risk Assessment → SDER Rating & Credit Adjustment
Bonus-Malus System
SDER ratings influence SDC credit requirements through a bonus-malus mechanism. Better ratings reduce credit requirements (bonus), while poorer ratings increase them (malus), creating market-based incentives for sustainable practices.
Bonus (Lower Risk)
Satellites with higher SDER ratings receive reduced credit requirements, lowering compliance costs and rewarding sustainable design choices.
Baseline (Standard Risk)
Satellites meeting minimum standards receive standard credit requirements without adjustments, establishing the reference point for the system.
Malus (Higher Risk)
Satellites with lower SDER ratings face increased credit requirements, reflecting higher debris risk and incentivizing operational improvements.
From Rating to Credit Requirement
Benefits of SDER
For Satellite Operators
- ✓Transparent risk assessment
- ✓Reduced compliance costs for sustainable practices
- ✓Competitive advantage through better ratings
- ✓Clear roadmap for improvement
For the Industry
- ✓Market-based sustainability incentives
- ✓Innovation driver for green technologies
- ✓Risk-based pricing mechanisms
- ✓Level playing field with objective metrics
For Regulators
- ✓Objective compliance monitoring
- ✓Risk-based policy enforcement
- ✓Data-driven decision making
- ✓International harmonization potential
For Insurers
- ✓Accurate risk pricing
- ✓Premium differentiation
- ✓Loss prevention incentives
- ✓Portfolio risk management
Additional Information
Next Steps
Whether you're a regulator, operator, or insurer, we're here to help you navigate the global market for orbital sustainability.
Book an Inter-Agency Briefing
Learn how our standards align with your regulatory framework
Get a Free SDER Pre-Assessment
Understand your orbital risk profile and credit potential
Request Loss-Model Pack
Get in touch with the assurance and risk team
Stay Updated with Celestia Dynamics
Get the latest insights on orbital sustainability, space debris solutions, and market developments delivered to your inbox.