As students majoring in various engineering disciplines, we are passionate about exploring the frontiers of technology and contributing to advancements in space exploration. This project mainly focuses on automatic rendezvous and docking manoeuvres in space, improving precision and accuracy while reducing the risk of damage to the spacecraft by removing the need for human pilots. This project holds immense potential to advance space exploration and satellite servicing capabilities, contributing to the growth and sustainability of the space industry.

Autonomous Spacecraft Robotics is an engineering design project at Carleton University that is comprised of a team of 4th-year students. Our final objective is docking and fluid transfer maneuver with an uncooperative spinning target

platform, to simulate the potential for in-space refueling. Using Model Predictive Control, Fluid Transfer Mechanisms, and advanced computer vision systems interfaced with a LiDAR camera, a comprehensive system was able to successfully demonstrate the capture and docking of two air-bearing spacecraft platforms, at Carleton University’s Spacecraft Proximity Operations Testbed.

All the funds will go towards purchasing the necessary equipment to ensure a successful completion of the project.

The Autonomous Spacecraft Robotics design project holds significant benefits regarding space exploration and utilization. Automating rendezvous and docking maneuvers will remove the general need for human pilots and improve accuracy to reduce the risk of damage to spacecraft, while also helping safely remove space debris, contributing to preserving the space environment. Additionally, autonomous spacecraft with those abilities can extend the quality and lifespan of operation satellites with on-orbit servicing, which results in cost savings and more sustainable space operations. Finally, this project would facilitate in-space assembly, allowing large structures or spacecraft to be built from smaller modular components. This opens the door to many possibilities for future space missions and would contribute greatly to innovation within the space industry.