Space Debris Quantum Imaging Service

Abstract

Satellites provide essential and extremely reliable services related to communication, broadcasting, and earth observation. The increasing presence of debris orbiting the earth, the result of the ever expanding space activities and explorations, is threatening the security of satellites and the reliability of the services they provide. Debris colliding with a satellite can be enough to damage it or put it out of service. As a result, there is a growing need for improved detection of the debris moving close to satellite orbits and their exact trajectories, so that collision-avoiding manoeuvres can be performed in time. This project is a feasibility study in to the use of quantum imaging to improve the identification of space debris with the objective of evaluating whether a service offering improved accuracy can be provided on a commercially viable basis to satellite operators.

Lead Participant

Project Cost

Grant Offer

AVANTI COMMUNICATIONS LIMITED £396,636 £ 198,318
 

Participant

INNOVATE UK
UNIVERSITY OF BIRMINGHAM £80,626

Publications

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