Small Spacecraft Propulsion and Inspection Capability (SSPICY)

The Small Spacecraft Propulsion and Inspection Capability (SSPICY) mission will demonstrate orbital debris inspection using a commercial small spacecraft platform equipped with a high-efficiency, low-thrust velocity changes. This mission, funded with a NASA Phase III Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contract to Starfish Space of Seattle, Washington, leverages previous investments in the company’s Otter spacecraft to mature small spacecraft technologies to conduct rendezvous, proximity operations (RPO), and inspection of U.S.-owned defunct satellites in low-Earth orbit (LEO). The primary objectives include performing close-up visual inspections, gathering critical data on debris characteristics, and validating technologies for future debris remediation efforts. This mission addresses capability needs for satellite servicing and logistics and small spacecraft propulsion capabilities also showcasing innovative autonomous systems and robotics for in-space operations.

Orbital debris is a topic of interest for all U.S. government groups operating in Earth orbit. In the context of this demonstration mission, debris is defined as human-made, non-functional objects – including fragments and elements thereof – that exist in Earth orbit(s) or are re-entering Earth’s atmosphere₁. Prevention of debris accumulation as well as remediation of existing debris, particularly within low Earth orbit (LEO), is a worthwhile endeavor with near-term benefits that warrant immediate action_2,3.

Enabling technologies for debris remediation and repurposing have significant overlap with high delta-V systems that enable a broad range of RPO such as science exploration of near-Earth objects (NEO). Demonstrating one or more high delta-v capable small spacecraft is also a key enabler for a multitude of other missions such as servicing and inspection of the International Space Station and future commercial low Earth orbit destinations. The technology focus area of in-space manufacturing and assembly (ISAM) will also benefit from this type of spacecraft capability demonstration as an enabler of its broader goals to ensure a sustainable space operating environment.

Starfish Space is developing the Otter, a spacecraft servicing vehicle to extend the life of GEO satellites and facilitate future disposal of defunct individual satellites and those within constellations in LEO. The intention of the SSPICY mission is to conduct a demonstration of Otter through rendezvous and inspection of multiple uncontrolled US-originated debris objects to assist in future remediation efforts through maturation of technology relevant to RPO and ISAM. SSPICY will mature US-commercial capabilities in the areas of electric propulsion, autonomous systems, and robotics that are extensible to multiple Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD) strategic framework areas and technology shortfalls.

The in-orbit technology demonstration is intended to launch no earlier than late 2026. Starfish Space will complete life-cycle reviews and pass Key Decision Points (KDPs) to move from a Mission Concept Review (MCR) all the way through demonstration mission launch and on-orbit operations.

References:

1. Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination Committee (IADC). 2007. “IADC Space Debris Mitigation Guidelines.” IADC-02-01, Revision 1, September 2007. https://sma.nasa.gov/sma-disciplines/orbital-debris
2. NASA OTPS Orbital Debris Remediation Cost Benefit Analysis Report: https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/otps_-_cost_and_benefit_analysis_of_orbital_debris_remediation_-_final.pdf
3. J.-C Liou. Advances in Space Research, Volume 47, Issue 11, 2011. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0273117711000974

The development and demonstration of the SSPICY mission will provide multiple benefits to the government, space industry and broader scientific community. The mission will advance technology to enable future debris remediation by validating key technologies and operational concepts necessary for future debris removal missions, contributing to the long-term sustainability of space activities. It will demonstrate commercial small spacecraft capabilities and will showcase the potential of small spacecraft for high delta-V operations. Additionally, the mission will enable commercial rendezvous, proximity operations, and capture (RPOC) products and services which will foster the growth of the commercial space sector, with relevance to US science and exploration ambitions.

The mission is relevant to several NASA STMD technology shortfalls: SSPICY directly addresses shortfalls in the areas of autonomous systems, robotics, and small spacecraft technology. Relevant 2024 STMD shortfalls include 1540, 1537, 1476, 1477, 1483, 611, 1432, 1430, 1431, and 1589. The mission will provide valuable data on the characteristics and behavior of several orbital objects, benefiting researchers and policymakers.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 5) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.