Earth’s orbit is becoming an increasingly busy place, and inactive satellites can remain there long after their missions end. NASA-backed technology is now testing a new approach to understanding these objects: sending a small spacecraft close enough to inspect them without immediately attempting a repair or removal. The project, known as the Small Spacecraft Propulsion and Inspection Capability (SSPICY), is designed to demonstrate technologies that could support future satellite servicing and orbital-debris assessment.
A Robotic Spacecraft Designed to Inspect Inactive Satellites
The SSPICY mission uses Otter 24C, a spacecraft developed and operated by Seattle-based Starfish Space. NASA says the mission is intended to inspect up to four inactive satellites in low Earth orbit. The spacecraft will collect close-range information about the objects, including their surface condition, geometry and orbital characteristics. Such observations could help engineers understand the condition of defunct spacecraft and evaluate possible options for future servicing or disposal.
The mission is a technology demonstration, not a plan to immediately repair or remove every satellite it approaches. Its main goal is to show that a spacecraft can navigate near an uncooperative object, gather useful information and maintain a safe distance while conducting an inspection.
Computer Vision Helps the Spacecraft Navigate
Approaching an inactive satellite is more complicated than simply pointing a camera at it. The target may be rotating, its orientation may be uncertain, and it may not have been designed for a visiting spacecraft to dock with it. SSPICY will test computer-vision-based navigation technology to help Otter determine an object's position and motion as it moves closer.
NASA describes a navigation system called CETACEAN that uses computer vision to estimate the target object's position and movement. A related system, CEPHALOPOD, uses that information to calculate safe, step-by-step approach decisions. Together with guidance, navigation and control technologies, these systems are intended to help the spacecraft conduct close inspections without relying on a cooperative target.
Electric Propulsion and an Articulating Robotic Boom
Otter 24C will also test a low-thrust electric propulsion system designed for efficient manoeuvring and controlled approaches. Another key component is Manta, an articulating robotic boom with multiple joints that can direct thrust in different directions. This capability could help a servicing spacecraft adjust its orientation and movement while operating near an object in orbit.
Although Starfish Space has developed a mechanical gripper called Nautilus for potential future applications, NASA says docking with a client spacecraft is not one of SSPICY's demonstration goals. The current mission focuses on inspection and technology validation, rather than claiming that it can already capture, repair or deorbit the satellites it visits.
Why Satellite Inspection Matters
Inactive satellites and fragments of spacecraft are part of the wider orbital-debris challenge. Before engineers can choose a safe and practical response to a defunct object, they need better information about its condition, shape, movement and possible points of contact. Close-range inspection could eventually support decisions about repairs, life-extension services, assisted disposal or other debris-management strategies.
NASA reported that SSPICY launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 as part of the Transporter-18 rideshare mission on October 1, 2026. The spacecraft is expected to begin inspections in 2027, with the technology demonstration planned to operate for about two years. The results will help NASA and industry assess how autonomous spacecraft could inspect inactive satellites and support future in-space servicing efforts.
What Comes Next?
SSPICY will not solve the orbital-debris problem on its own, and its inspection capabilities still need to be demonstrated in space. However, if the mission validates its navigation software, propulsion and robotic-boom technologies, it could provide a foundation for future spacecraft designed to inspect, service or assist with the disposal of objects that were never built to cooperate with another vehicle.
