TransAstra’s Capture Bag Poised to Revolutionize Space Mining

In a breakthrough test aboard the International Space Station, California-based startup TransAstra showcased its innovative inflatable Capture Bag, hinting at a new era in asteroid mining and space debris management.

The Capture Bag is designed to gently secure objects of all sizes in space, from small rocks to large asteroids. Unlike rigid systems, its flexible design allows it to adapt to unpredictable surfaces, minimizing risk during initial contact. Joel Sercel, founder of TransAstra and former Caltech engineer, emphasized that asteroid mining demands four integrated capabilities: detect, capture, move, and process. Until now, these steps posed extreme technical challenges and high costs for space missions.

The ISS prototype trial is a stepping stone toward stronger, more capable bags. Supported by NASA, the US Space Force, and private investors, TransAstra has already raised $27 million for development. Many near-Earth objects sit relatively close, making them feasible targets for upcoming missions. The company plans its first capture attempt by 2028, which could redefine how humanity interacts with asteroids.

Beyond asteroid mining, the Capture Bag holds promise for space debris removal. Defunct satellites increasingly threaten operational spacecraft, and flexible containment systems like these could safely clear hazardous orbiting objects. By lowering costs and reducing mission risks, TransAstra hopes to broaden access to space resources and make asteroid extraction a viable, long-term industry.

With only three successful asteroid sample missions worldwide—each costing hundreds of millions—TransAstra’s approach could offer a more affordable, scalable solution for exploration and orbital safety.