Autonomous Space Traffic Management Technologies for Small Spacecraft Swarms and Constellations

Syrnatec proposes a novel robust solution for the ldquo;Onboard Devices for Deorbit and/or Disposal of Single Spacecraftrdquo; via the development of a hardware-based energy harvesting and controller module for electrodynamic-tether (EDT) systems. Recently, passive EDTs have successfully demonstrated deorbit of small spacecraft (e.g., Millennium Space Systemrsquo;s Dragracer mission in 2021). Our proposed module will enable these passive EDT de-orbit systems to perform controlled deorbit/disposal as well as to harvest the energy generated during deorbit for mission-enabling and -enhancing objectives. The module will leverage Syrnatecrsquo;s radiation-tolerant, high-voltage, high-power MOSFETs for tether current switching and control and in the harvesting of electrical energy from the EDT. Our system will enable EDT control throughout the disposal process, protecting against collisions and interferences with both active and inactive spacecraft and debris. The module could be included as part of a dedicated de-orbit system or it could be an integral component of a debris tug deorbit system, enabling multiple debris objects to be de-orbited.