The integration of autonomous collision avoidance systems represents a major leap forward in satellite operations, enabling CubeSats to navigate the growing risks of space debris without human intervention. This breakthrough will enhance the resilience of space traffic management, ensuring the safe and sustainable operation of future missions.

Tiago Soares, Clean Space lead engineer of ESA commented, “ESA wants to develop zero-debris satellites to get to Zero Debris by 2030 to ensure a safe and sustainable future in space. Collision avoidance is an essential part of that, and as orbits are getting increasingly crowded, automation is key. Developing CubeSats with AI-based automation on board will allow them to avoid debris and other spacecraft autonomously. Together with Ion-X, Aldoria, AIKO and Space Inventor we are preventing the creation of new debris by building more self-reliant CubeSats for smarter, safer and more affordable space traffic management.”