COIMBRA, Portugal - Kongsberg NanoAvionics in Vilnius, Lithuania needed a space traffic management (STM) solution for its own end-to-end small satellite mission services. They found their solution from Neuraspace in Coimbra, Portugal.
Satellite manufacturer and mission integrator NanoAvionics will make Neuraspace’s STM system for collision analysis, maneuver planning, and improving space sustainability part of its launch and early orbit phase (LEOP) and operations package. In addition to enhanced safety for satellites, NanoAvionics and its customers will benefit from automated spacecraft operations such as collision analysis and maneuver planning, ensuring their assets are protected at all times.
Collision avoidance is a continuous process wherein the STM software monitors predicted trajectories of orbiting objects, identifying potential collisions or close approaches. Upon detection of such risks, the software calculates the probability of impact and recommends or executes maneuvers to avoid collisions. These maneuvers may involve adjusting the orbits of satellites or spacecraft by firing thrusters or deploying attitude control systems.
Related: SpeQtral chooses NanoAvionics for satellite bus for upcoming mission
The STM software facilitates Communication and coordination, enabling information exchange between satellite operators, space agencies, and other stakeholders regarding planned maneuvers, launches, and other space activities. This fosters conflict prevention and minimizes disruptions to ongoing missions.
"At NanoAvionics, ensuring sustainable space operations has always been a core focus, and we've continually employed collision avoidance tools to maintain this," Žilvinas Kvedaravičius, CEO of NanoAvionics, said. "The integration of Neuraspace's software-as-a-service into our service portfolio marks a significant advancement in our efforts.
“This enhancement builds upon our existing methodologies for space traffic management and aligns with the increasing demands from our customers who are committed to meeting the sustainability targets set by their stakeholders, regulators, and end-users. By incorporating Neuraspace's advanced solutions into our mission planning and operations, we are taking a proactive step towards even more responsible and efficient space mission management."
Related: Neuraspace and Arcsec partner to detect space debris
Using Neuraspace’s STM system reduces the need for manual labor, which is also a cost factor. Additionally, the platform minimizes mission disruptions and can help lower insurance premiums through improved space debris mitigation.
Neuraspace’s solution can also enable additional earnings by extending the satellite lifetime, for example by avoiding using valuable fuel for unnecessary maneuvers and providing enhanced services such as priority maneuvers.
