Analysis of impact data from the DEBIE (Debris In-Orbit Evaluator) sensor in polar low earth orbit

The Debris In Orbit Evaluator (DEBEE) is an active dust impact detector; two DEBIE sensors were launched onboard the ESA PROBA satellite in October 2001, into a polar low Earth orbit. The detector uses three independent techniques to provide real time space debris and natural meteoroid impact data. The sensor completed its commissioning phase in July 2002. During the period August 2002 to January 2005 DEBIE was active for almost 50% of the time, and has detected more than 238 dust and debris impacts.