Main Objectives
Event sensors for in-space applications
AstrAware will demonstrate the impact of advanced event sensor architectures – with higher resolutions and adapted spectral response – on improving detection performance, highlighting the benefits of near-sensor event data pre-processing for space applications, and showing operability in space conditions enabled by higher dynamic range and reduced power consumption.
Modified Star Trackers
for Enhanced Space Situational Awareness
for Enhanced Space Situational Awareness
The project will improve the object detection and characterization capabilities of star tracker observations by building on EIC experience of the partners. At the same time, enable the fusion of observations among heterogeneous sensors.
Modified Star Trackers for Enhanced Space Situational Awareness
The project will improve the object detection and characterization capabilities of star tracker observations by building on EIC experience of the partners. At the same time, enable the fusion of observations among heterogeneous sensors.
Enabling technology concept for in-orbit proximity operations
This work will integrate and leverage developments from other Horizon Europe projects in synergy with AstrAware, it will provide a sensor suite for in-orbit debris detection across all orbital regimes and for in-orbit relative navigation, and, to conclude, will validate AstrAware in a laboratory environment. This is an enabling step for active debris removal and in-space recycling & reuse of orbital assets
Sustainable Development Goals Framework
European Commission – Sustainable Development Goals
In line with the European Union’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, this project aims to contribute to Goals 9, 12 and 17.
Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
Building resilient infrastructure, promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialization and fostering innovation
Responsible Consumption and Production
Ensuring sustainable consumption and production patterns for efficient resource management
Partnerships
for the Goals
Strengthening global partnerships and cooperation to implement sustainable development objectives
Project Summary
Space Debris Operations
The current overpopulation of satellites in orbit requires decisive actions to ensure safe operations in the near-Earth environment.
Innovative Approach
Funded by the European Innovation Council, AstrAware pioneers a new approach to detecting and tracking the rapidly growing population of objects in low Earth orbit.
Roadmap
AstrAware will be developed with strong core technology and two main branches of exploration,
all converging toward the validation of the complete payload concept.
onboard software development
At the heart of AstrAware lies robust onboard software, enabling the most fundamental tasks required by the payload. This includes space surveillance and tracking capabilities such as initial and refined orbit determination, as well as relative navigation at both close and far ranges. Thanks to the EIC Pathfinder funding scheme, this solid foundation supports the exploration of advanced, high-risk, high-reward concepts.
enhanced use of existing sensors
This branch focuses on repurposing space-validated hardware, especially star trackers, to support AstrAware’s objectives. By enhancing data processing, these sensors can perform new functions, potentially reshaping space traffic management. Since many satellites already carry such hardware, AstrAware’s capabilities could be integrated directly into future payloads, enabling massive scalability. This would create a fleet of in-orbit observers capable of collecting far more data than the current global ground-station network.
exploration of novel sensors
Investigation of neuromorphic cameras, a technology not yet used for in-orbit operations but with strong potential for this application. These sensors are well suited to detecting faint tracks from fast-moving orbital debris, as they respond directly to subtle illumination changes. Unlike conventional optical sensors that rely on complex image processing, neuromorphic cameras provide this capability natively, while also offering high dynamic range and low power consumption: key advantages for in-orbit use.
merging software and hardware
The final stage of the roadmap brings together all software and hardware developments to validate the AstrAware payload concept through hardware integration and testing. This ensures the demonstration of sufficient technology readiness by the end of the project and establishes a strong backbone for future growth.
“The overcrowding of satellites and space debris in orbit poses collision risks and threatens future space activities. Developing capabilities to detect and track these objects is crucial for ensuring safe operations and for enabling effective debris removal and servicing missions.”
