Satellite builders launch new partnership to help protect and defend critical space infrastructure

Alton’s In-Space Missions is teaming up with fellow aerospace firm LMO as they explore the use of small satellite platforms in monitoring other satellites orbiting Earth.

Together they’re aiming to achieve a better space domain awareness, which involves detecting, identifying and tracking objects like old rocket parts and cosmic debris that hurtle through space and pose a threat to crucial satellite infrastructure.

Doug Liddle, CEO of In-Space Missions, said: “At In-Space Missions, we recognise the importance of monitoring the Earth’s orbital environment and synthesising an accurate picture of an increasingly contested space domain.

“To ensure a secure future in space, the safety of our satellite assets, and the security of those people who depend on them for critical services, we’ll continue to develop capabilities around space domain awareness.

“As an important step forward in growing these capabilities, In-Space is delighted to be working on this project with LMO – a company recognised as a domain leader in space domain awareness.”

The partnership sees In-Space Missions working with LMO’s end users, as the Hampshire firm helps to define their mission requirements and identify any development gaps.

They’ll also look to determine the number of satellites required by LMO to deliver their AUREA (Autonomous Recognition of Foreign Assets) programme, which makes use of multi-sensor technologies including optical, LiDAR and radar instruments.

It’s already received backing from Luxembourg – home to LMO’s operations beyond the UK – as part of the country’s Directorate of Defence space strategy.

Michel Poucet, CEO of LMO, added: “Partnering with In-Space Missions will allow us to accelerate the validation process of our Protect and Defend architecture, and demonstrate our core SDA capability to end users within NATO and the Five Eyes.”

• in-space.co.uk