Two space startups, Momentus and Astroscale, have joined forces to create the next generation of telescopes, particularly focusing on extending the lifetime of the Hubble Space Telescope and tackling the issue of orbital debris.
This collaborative effort comes after NASA issued a request for information in December 2022, following a non-exclusive SpaceX study announced in September. The SpaceX proposal explores options to reboost the 33-year-old Hubble Space Telescope into a higher orbit, but other companies are also encouraged to submit their ideas.
Highlights
The Proposal Details
Momentus and Astroscale have presented a synergistic approach that leverages their respective expertise. Momentus, which began operations in 2017, has experience with space tugs, having launched several demonstration flights of its Vigoride space tug aboard SpaceX rideshare missions. Astroscale, founded in 2013, has conducted a space debris demonstration mission called ELSA-d in March 2021, although the test was halted in May 2022 due to anomalous spacecraft conditions. Astroscale plans another mission in 2024.
The joint proposal involves using the Vigoride space tug, which would launch on a yet-to-be-determined rocket. Once in space, Vigoride would utilize Astroscale’s technology for rendezvous, proximity operations, and docking to reach the Hubble Space Telescope. The tug would then reboost Hubble’s orbit by 31 miles (50 kilometers) and subsequently focus on cleaning up orbital debris in the vicinity.
Technological Innovations
This mission would showcase several technological innovations:
– Vigoride Space Tug: A versatile space tug capable of reboosting and servicing spacecraft.
– Astroscale Technology: Specialized in rendezvous, proximity operations, and docking.
– Debris Removal: Addressing the critical issue of orbital debris, which is essential for maintaining a safe and operational space environment.
Financial and Operational Challenges
Despite the promising proposal, Momentus faces financial challenges, with a dangerously low cash reserve as of its first quarter financial results in May 2023. This financial strain could impact the feasibility of the project.
Broader Implications and Support
This initiative is part of a larger trend of private-public partnerships that NASA is exploring to support robust and superior science missions. Thomas Zurbuchen, then-associate administrator for the Science Mission Directorate at NASA, highlighted the innovative approaches being considered to extend the lifetimes of NASA’s telescopes.
Other NASA telescopes, such as the Chandra X-ray Observatory, are also being studied for potential rescue missions. Northrop Grumman is conducting a feasibility study for servicing Chandra, which was launched in 1999.
In conclusion, the collaboration between Momentus and Astroscale to create the next generation of telescopes is a significant step forward in space technology and debris management. This initiative underscores the importance of private-public partnerships in advancing space science and ensuring the longevity of critical space assets, making it a pivotal moment in the evolution of space telescopes.
Two space startups, Momentus and Astroscale, have joined forces to create the next generation of telescopes.
