NASA and SpaceX Forge Enhanced Space Safety Agreement

The launch of objects into space isn't an unrestricted activity. NASA maintains oversight to assess potential risks to its orbiting assets, notably the International Space Station (ISS). A standardized process, known as “Conjunction Assessment,” is utilized to determine the probability of close encounters between objects in space and the potential for collision.

A New Level of Collaboration

NASA recently formalized a new agreement with SpaceX, exceeding standard Conjunction Assessment protocols. This agreement, operating under the authority of the Space Act – which facilitates collaboration between NASA and private companies – is designated as “nonreimbursable,” meaning no funds are exchanged between the parties.

The core of this partnership stems from SpaceX’s operation of Starlink, currently the largest satellite constellation in orbit, and its rapid expansion. Each Starlink satellite possesses autonomous maneuvering capabilities, necessitating a more robust collaborative framework with NASA for collision avoidance.

Enhanced Communication and Information Sharing

This agreement details increased communication and data exchange between NASA and SpaceX. NASA will proactively provide SpaceX with comprehensive details regarding planned missions.

This advance notice will enable SpaceX to optimize Starlink’s automated avoidance systems during missions where NASA assets may intersect with the constellation’s path. Furthermore, NASA will collaborate with SpaceX to refine its assessment and avoidance techniques.

Responsibilities of SpaceX

SpaceX is responsible for ensuring its Starlink satellites execute “evasive action” to minimize close approaches and prevent collisions with all NASA property. They are also obligated to provide defined timeframes when collision avoidance systems are unavailable.

This typically occurs immediately following launch, during the activation and orbital positioning phases of new satellites. Moreover, SpaceX will strategically plan Starlink launches to maintain a minimum separation of 5 km above or below the ISS orbital altitude.

Mitigating Satellite Brightness

The agreement also requires SpaceX to share its analysis of the effectiveness of its satellite dimming technologies. This data will inform NASA’s guidance on reducing the reflectivity of spacecraft, known as “photometric brightness.”

Implications for the Future

With the Starlink constellation exceeding 1,200 satellites and projected to grow to 1,500 or more by the end of the year, NASA is prioritizing responsible low-Earth orbit operations.

NASA is placing significant confidence in Starlink’s autonomous capabilities to mitigate potential hazards. The structure of this agreement also allows for potential adaptation and application to other constellation operators, a growing necessity given the increasing number of companies developing low-Earth orbit networks.

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