International Space Station SPHERES Integrated Research Experiments (InSPIRE)

Abstract

The International Space Station SPHERES Integrated Research Experiments (InSPIRE) program utilized 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 enhanced the ability to rapidly mature and insert new technologies into national security space assets. The InSPIRE program expanded on the capabilities matured through SPHERES by developing, building, and launching new hardware and software elements that expand the baseline capabilities. These capabilities will 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, 2017
Source ID
79dc9d6dd0a4e37fe746399de5c1ac61

Tags

Readers

  • Defense Technology Research and Development.
  • Robotics and Automation.
  • Space Exploration and Orbital Mechanics.

Technology Areas

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

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