Turion Space, a burgeoning startup based in Irvine, California, has secured a $1.9 million contract from SpaceWERX, the technology development arm of the U.S. Space Force, to create an advanced autonomous spacecraft docking and maneuvering system.
This initiative aims to refine technologies that engage uncooperative space objects and facilitate the deorbiting of inactive satellites, tackling the growing problem of space debris.
According to BIS Research analysts, the global market for active space debris removal is expected to observe a significant CAGR of 27.66% over the period 2020-2030. This opens multiple opportunities for startups and establishes companies, to innovate and help solve the space debris issue, along with millions of dollars in revenue.
Turion Space, led by co-founder and CEO Ryan Westerdahl, is making significant strides in in-space mobility and non-Earth imaging. The company launched its inaugural satellite, Droid.001, in June 2023.
This 32-kilogram spacecraft is designed to enhance space situational awareness, and its data is being integrated into the Space Force’s Unified Data Library. Droid.001 represents a critical step towards Turion's ambition of developing a comprehensive system for space debris management.
Westerdahl outlined plans for a demonstration in 2026 featuring a Droid mothership that will host “micro-Droid” satellites. These micro-Droids, equipped with grapplers, will capture debris objects, and the development of these devices is partially funded by NASA. The demonstration will showcase the technology being developed under the SpaceWERX contract, underscoring Turion's commitment to solving the space debris problem.
“The space debris problem can be solved with a better understanding of where things are in the space domain so operational satellites can maneuver without regret to avoid collisions, and by removing large non-maneuverable objects,” Westerdahl explained. This highlights the dual approach of enhancing situational awareness and actively removing hazardous debris from orbit.
In the long term, Turion aims to provide a comprehensive debris removal service. However, the company is currently focusing on hosting space domain awareness payloads to establish a steady revenue stream.
Turion offers three payload hosting options: Droid Alpha Mini, Droid Alpha, and Droid Alpha Enhanced Mobility with ion thrusters. These options cater to various mission requirements and budgets, making Turion a versatile player in the space technology market.
Turion’s upcoming satellite launch, scheduled for February, will demonstrate the capabilities of the larger Droid Alpha bus. Westerdahl envisions a future where Turion is producing 45 satellites annually by 2027.
The company’s enhanced mobility ion thrusters, co-produced with Desert Works Propulsion, will be a cornerstone of their satellite technology, ensuring efficient and effective maneuvering capabilities in space.
Moreover, the company's rapid progress is underpinned by substantial financial backing, having raised nearly $20 million in venture capital to date. This funding has been instrumental in advancing their technology and expanding their operations.
The SpaceWERX contract represents a significant milestone for Turion Space, validating its innovative approach to space debris management. By developing autonomous docking and deorbiting systems, Turion is addressing a critical challenge in the space industry. Space debris poses a substantial risk to both operational satellites and future space missions, making effective debris management solutions essential for the sustainable use of space.
Turion’s technology not only aims to mitigate these risks but also to pave the way for a safer and more efficient space environment. The integration of their data into the Space Force’s Unified Data Library enhances collective efforts to monitor and manage space traffic, ensuring that space remains a viable domain for exploration and utilization.
The company's ambitious goals, backed by robust technology and strategic partnerships, position it as a key player in addressing one of the most pressing issues in modern space exploration.
Also Read: The Deep Tech of Space Exploration
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