Design of a Spacecraft Pose Estimation System Using Convolutional Neural Networks

Performing crucial activities for space exploration, e.g., debris removal and on-orbit servicing, systems for Rendezvous and Proximity Operations (RPO) are required to be autonomous and scalable. Within this context, learning-based relative navigation has gained significant traction due to the latest advancements in AI and the cost-effectiveness...

Thrusting System for Electrostatic Space Debris Control

The Geosynchronous Large Debris Reorbiter concept is an active debris removal method proposed for defunct satellites in geostationary orbit. This method uses the electrostatic tractor (or tug), which is a spacecraft that controls a mutual electrostatic force on a target and uses this force to slowly accelerate the target towards or away from the...

Detection of Low Velocity Space Debris and Micrometeoroid Impacts: An Experimental Investigation

Space debris and micrometeoroids are abundant around our home planet and offer both an opportunity of research for scientists and a threat to human’s endeavours in space. Impacts with even the smallest particles can happen at such high velocities that they can damage or destroy an operational spacecraft, creating even more debris and possibly...

Hypervelocity Impact Simulation using Smoothed-Particle Hydrodynamics

The issue of space debris in Low Earth Orbit is a growing concern that requires comprehensive solutions. This includes preventing further pollution, removing existing debris, and designing resilient spacecraft that can withstand impacts. This thesis focuses on the improvement of spacecraft shielding structures to provide effective protection...

Control methods for geostationary debris removal using solar sailing: A hybrid low-thrust analysis of repeatable debris removal trajectories

Thousands of space debris objects remain in space after decades of spaceflight without sustainability regulations. Some of these objects de-orbit naturally, but not objects in the geostationary region for which active debris removal is needed. This thesis presents the case of geostationary debris removal using solar sailing, a propulsion method...

Sun-synchronous Spacecraft Compliance with International Space Debris Guidelines

Due to ever increasing accessibility, recent years have seen a fast growing number of launches to space, especially to Sun-synchronous orbit. The spent rocket parts, payload fairings and eventually non-functioning payloads of these launches remain in orbit. It is well-established that this accumulation of space debris over time is quickly making...

Guidance, Navigation and Control System Design of Envisat Active Debris Removal

Space debris is becoming one of the major risks to be suffered by operating and future space missions. Recent studies show that the number of potentially hazardous uncontrolled orbital bodies is growing with time, increasing the probability of impact with operational satellites. To counteract this problem, several studies are being suggested to...

Robust Navigation Framework for Proximity Operations around Uncooperative Spacecraft: A monocular vision-based navigation approach using deep learning

Autonomous vision-based navigation is a crucial element for space applications involving a potentially uncooperative target, such as proximity operations for on-orbit servicing or active debris removal. Due to low mass and power characteristics, monocular vision sensors are an attractive choice for onboard vision-based navigation systems. This...

New techniques for uncertainty realism improvement in Space Surveillance and Tracking orbit determination processes

The future space environment is predicted to grow in number of both operational and inactive man-made objects and the era of constellations is expected to arrive during the following years, with many telecom companies launching constellations of up to 12000 satellites. This situation will inevitably lead to over-population of the most demanded...

Statistical Impact Prediction of Space Debris: The Uncertainty Propagation Approach

Due to the increasing number of space debris objects in orbit around Earth, the need increases for accurate predictions of impact time and location. These predictions are inherently statistical due to the large number of uncertainties in predicting the atmospheric decay and entry trajectories of these objects. Currently, Monte Carlo methods are...