Science & Technology

Technological progress in spacecraft life extension, debris removal, space operations autonomy, and robotics will disrupt the traditional paradigm of spacecraft design, acquisition, launch, operations, and maintenance. A new generation of spacecraft designed specifically for In-space Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing (ISAM) is leading this charge towards a new space economy.

While artificial intelligence (AI) has enhanced or enabled technologies that were previously not thought possible, its increased presence has also engendered growing concern, particularly in domains where the potential for harm is high. Can a set of definitions and best practices help policymakers gain the confidence to pursue the benefits of AI while also ensuring the AI-enabled future?

Historically, the very low Earth orbit (VLEO) atmosphere has been a tough one for satellites to survive long-term. Can air-scooping electric propulsion (ASEP) potentially extend the life of VLEO satellites?