A new NASA-supported spacecraft will get up close to satellites that are no longer in service, showing technologies that could support future in-space repairs and reduce orbital debris.
The Small Spacecraft Propulsion and Inspection Capability 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, such as satellites and rocket bodies.
In early 2027, the Otter spacecraft, built by Starfish Space, will begin to navigate within hundreds of yards of each object to perform inspections, using autonomous guidance and control software with minimal input from ground controllers.
During the SSPICY mission, the Otter spacecraft won’t touch or dock with any satellites, but will test the 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.
Starfish Space developed and operates the Otter 24C spacecraft, which is performing the SSPICY mission.