The growing mass of space junk whizzing around the earth is presenting a serious threat to the ever-increasing number of orbital satellites. But if you’re one of those satellites – telecoms, defense or otherwise, a Skolkovo Space Cluster resident has got your back.
By monitoring the orbit of space debris – itself made up mostly of destroyed satellites and spent rocket stages – ISON will be able to warn satellite owners of impending collisions and present insurance companies with independent information should an impact occur.
“Space is in use by more than 70 countries, and to ensure security – and that everyone involved in space activities is sure that nothing will happen to their equipment - an informational base to maintain safety should be formed,” says project leader Vladimir Agapov.
ISON's planned network of observation posts
Ison has produced a prototype software program that aggregates data gleaned from two of its own telescopes, and by 2018 hopes to unite up to 70 existing telescopes in 20 countries.
The company is to begin sales of a pilot version next year.