Space Machines expands global partnerships with UK collaboration to address space debris

Space Machines expands global partnerships with UK collaboration to address space debris
by Simon Mansfield
Sydney, Australia (SPX) Dec 05, 2024
Space Machines Company, a leading Australian-Indian in-space servicing firm, has announced a strategic collaboration with UK-based ISAM technology developer Lunasa. This partnership aims to tackle the pressing global challenge of space debris and represents a significant step forward under the UK-Australia Space Bridge Arrangement, which promotes innovation and international collaboration within the space industry.

As part of this agreement, Lunasa will participate in Space Machines Company's second Optimus satellite launch through the Space MAITRI (Mission for Australia-India's Technology, Research, and Innovation) mission. Scheduled for 2026, this mission will use NewSpace India Limited's (NSIL) advanced Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV). The Australian Government has supported the initiative with an $8.5 million investment through the Australian Space Agency's International Space Investment India Projects program.

The partnership will see Lunasa integrate its autonomous 'StarLogic' Rendezvous Proximity Operations (RPO) payload onto Space Machines' Optimus orbital servicing vehicle. StarLogic will demonstrate the ability to image and interact with on-orbit objects, including satellite debris, at ranges of one to twenty kilometers. The payload will enable autonomous calculations for orbital maneuvers, target detection, relative navigation, and real-time operations - all critical steps for sustainable space exploration.

"This partnership with Lunasa is a key milestone for Space Machines Company as we grow our international presence and contribute to the future of space infrastructure," said Rajat Kulshrestha, CEO and Co-Founder of Space Machines Company. "Collaborating with strategic partners across AUKUS strengthens Australia's role in the global space economy and supports sustainable exploration efforts."

Amin Chabi, CEO of Lunasa, echoed the enthusiasm, stating, "We are thrilled to partner with Space Machines Company for this significant mission. Together, we aim to demonstrate cutting-edge RPO and satellite servicing technologies that will lay the foundation for a new era of sustainable space operations. Working with such an innovative Australian partner highlights the opportunities for creating efficient and reliable satellite services."

Over the next two years, the companies will collaborate to test and integrate the StarLogic payload with Space Machines' Optimus OSV in Australia. Once complete, the spacecraft will be shipped to India for launch as part of the Space MAITRI mission.

Paul Bate, CEO of the UK Space Agency, emphasized the importance of international efforts in tackling space debris, saying, "This partnership showcases the innovative capabilities within the UK and Australian space sectors. Lunasa's StarLogic deployment and demonstration will pave the way for future advancements in sustainable space operations, safeguarding the space environment for generations to come."

Enrico Palermo, Head of the Australian Space Agency, highlighted the broader benefits, adding, "Space is inherently a global endeavor. This collaboration underscores the opportunities for Australia's space sector to work with international partners. The Space MAITRI mission demonstrates how government investment can drive collaboration, benefiting communities on Earth."