NASA SSPICY mission launches to inspect defunct satellites in orbit

NASA's Small Spacecraft Propulsion and Inspection Capability (SSPICY) mission launched Oct. 1 from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The mission is a technology demonstration where an Otter spacecraft will approach up to four inoperable space objects of U.S. origin in low Earth orbit.

In early 2027, the Otter spacecraft, built by Starfish Space, will begin to navigate within hundreds of yards of each object to perform inspections. The spacecraft uses autonomous guidance and control software with minimal input from ground controllers. Computer vision and sensors enable software to make real-time navigation decisions as the spacecraft approaches each target.

During inspection, the Otter spacecraft will gather critical information about each object. This includes spin rate, orientation, and surface condition. An electric propulsion system will enable SSPICY to travel between objects. An articulating robotic boom will test pointing the spacecraft's thrusters for precise maneuvering between different orbits.

This mission is the first time these technologies will be tested together as an integrated system. During the SSPICY mission, the Otter spacecraft will not touch or dock with any satellites.

The mission tests technologies needed to one day enable missions to service or repair objects in orbit or to safely remove them by pulling them into Earth's atmosphere for disposal. Space objects like rocket bodies and satellites that are no longer in service can break apart or collide, creating orbital debris.

Starfish Space developed and operates the Otter 24C spacecraft performing the SSPICY mission. NASA's Small Spacecraft and Distributed Systems program within the agency's Research and Technology Mission Directorate funds and manages the technology demonstration. NASA's Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer program funded awards to Starfish Space to support early development of the spacecraft's key technologies and capabilities.