International Space Station SPHERES Integrated Research Experiments (InSPIRE)

Abstract

The International Space Station SPHERES Integrated Research Experiments (InSPIRE) program utilizes the DARPA-sponsored Synchronized Position, Hold, Engage, and Reorient Experimental Satellites (SPHERES) platform, which has flown onboard the International Space Station (ISS) since May 2006, to perform a series of multi-body formation flight experiments that necessitate a medium-duration zero-gravity environment. InSPIRE enhances the ability to rapidly mature and insert new technologies into national security space assets. The InSPIRE program expands on the capabilities matured through SPHERES by developing, building and launching new hardware and software elements that expand the baseline capabilities. These capabilities enable use of SPHERES as a testbed for more complex experimentation, providing affordable opportunities to test new space technologies.

Document Details

Document Type
Accomplishment
Publication Date
Oct 01, 2016
Source ID
028e275da735dab883798e8ae82effd6

Tags

Readers

  • Aerospace Engineering.
  • Defense Technology Research and Development.
  • Robotics and Automation.

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Orbital Debris
  • Space - Satellites
  • Space - Spacecraft Maneuvers

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