Part-6: Will Satellite Emulator Technology Eliminate Space Debris by 2030?

This paper introduces the concept of Satellite Emulators (SATeM) represents an emerging paradigm in digital transformation applied to space operations. Instead of launching physical satellites into orbit, SATeM leverages high-speed internet, artificial intelligence (AI), and cloud computing to create virtual satellite environments hosted in distributed data centers—referred to as iSky. By shifting satellite functions to emulated systems in the cloud, this approach has the potential to significantly reduce the proliferation of space debris. This paper examines the technologies underpinning SATeM, its architecture, and the potential impact on orbital debris mitigation. Further, it discusses the feasibility of global adoption of SATeM by 2030.