project purpose

The In-Space Proof-of-Concept 3 (InSPoC-3) initiative plays a critical role in advancing the orbital economy by utilizing cutting-edge onboard and shared intelligence. As space transportation evolves, space-tugs are expected to operate for extended periods, executing diverse missions throughout their lifecycle. These space-tugs will function as part of an orchestrated fleet of vehicles and cargo. InSPoC-3 aims to address key challenges in this evolving landscape, focusing on autonomy, longevity, “over-the-space” updates, and enhanced cooperation capabilities in space logistics. The initiative will explore and mature advanced software technologies, including distributed computing, artificial intelligence (AI), and digital twins, to meet these objectives.

key objectives

• Autonomy Enhancement: Develop advanced autonomous capabilities to minimize human intervention and progress toward full mission autonomy.

• Longevity & Sustainability: Implement health monitoring, fault detection, and recovery systems to extend operational lifespans and reduce performance degradation.

• “Over-the-Space” Updates: Enable software and functional updates post-deployment to ensure adaptability to new mission requirements.

• Cooperative Space Operations: Advance shared intelligence for improved in-space coordination, synchronization, and mission efficiency.

• Fleet Management: Optimize resource allocation and real-time mission planning for multiple spacecraft operating simultaneously.

project focus areas

Topic A: Autonomy in Space-Tugs

• Assess the level of autonomy required for space-tugs to conduct missions with minimal operator oversight.

• Investigate reconfigurability for adapting to evolving mission objectives post-deployment.

• Develop and implement “over-the-space” updates, including over-the-air (OTA) software updates, to maintain operational flexibility.

Topic B: Longevity & Health Monitoring

• Analyze how space-tugs can perform multiple missions over an extended period without major degradation.

• Implement health monitoring and management systems to ensure prolonged operational capabilities.

• Develop advanced fault detection, isolation, and recovery (FDIR) mechanisms to mitigate the effects of prolonged space exposure.

Topic C: Shared Intelligence for Advanced Cooperation

• Enable space-tugs to collaborate with other orbital assets to optimize in-space maneuvers and mission execution.

• Improve guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) cooperation for precise alignment during docking, refueling, and debris removal.

• Shift from ground-based control to real-time, inter-spacecraft communication using high-speed optical and radio frequency links.

Topic D: Spacecraft Fleet Management

• Develop intelligent fleet management systems for real-time resource reallocation and mission adjustments.

• Enhance operational resilience by predicting potential mission disruptions and implementing proactive solutions.

• Coordinate multi-payload deliveries and in-space infrastructure assembly with optimized timing and sequencing strategies.

future impact

The InSPoC-3 initiative is a pivotal step in developing an autonomous and collaborative space transportation ecosystem. By advancing in-space autonomy, health management, shared intelligence, and fleet coordination, this project will drive the next generation of space logistics, enhancing operational flexibility and reducing long-term mission costs.

Through its focus on cutting-edge software and adaptive technologies, InSPoC-3 will contribute to a more resilient and efficient in-space economy.