NASA-backed spacecraft to test satellite repair and orbital debris technology

On October 1, a NASA-backed spacecraft was launched to conduct a mission focused on satellite maintenance and the management of orbital debris. The washing-machine-sized vehicle is designed to autonomously navigate to and inspect up to four inactive satellites and discarded rocket bodies currently located in low Earth orbit.

The mission, designated SSPICY, is scheduled to initiate its inspection phase in early 2027. By utilizing advanced sensors and electric propulsion, the spacecraft aims to demonstrate the feasibility of autonomous repair and debris mitigation technologies, which are critical for the long-term sustainability of the orbital environment.