NASA launches mission to test autonomous satellite inspection
NASA just launched the SSPICY mission to test a spacecraft that will get close to decommissioned satellites in low Earth orbit and inspect them without any human steering. Built by Starfish Space, the Otter 24C will autonomously navigate, gather info like spin rate and condition, and use electric propulsion to move between up to four space objects. It won’t touch anything—this is a test of tech for future in-space repairs and cleaning up space junk.
- Otter 24C launched Oct. 1 from California
- Mission will inspect up to four derelict space objects
- Uses self-driving software, sensors, electric propulsion
- First integrated test of these servicing technologies
- No contact or docking with satellites planned
Sources covering this
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