On Orbit Servicing and Autonomy

The On-Orbit Servicing and Autonomy team develops cutting-edge technology for autonomous orbital rendezvous as well as for on-board data analysis and real-time information of end users on ground. In the area of rendezvous, the group provides novel algorithms and guidance, navigation and control architectures in the form of safety-critical, hardware-in-the-loop-tested flight software alongside ground software and operational procedures. The group handles the most difficult scenarios like on-orbit servicing or active debris removal. In the area of on-board data analysis, the group offers a flexible framework for diverse software applications that need easy integration into a satellite platform as well as 24/7 end user communication.

Research Topics

GNC-Concepts for the Rendezvous-Phase

  • Camera-based Navigation
  • Time of Flight Sensor Navigation (PMD, LIDAR)
  • Development of Approach-Concepts and GNC Systems

Hardware in the Loop RvD Simulation

  • EPOS 2.0 – Robotic RvD-Simulator
  • Closed Loop Rendezvous Simulation in Real-Time
  • OOS End-to-End Simulation
  • Verification and Test of Rvd Sensors and Systems
  • Testcampaigns with Internal and External Partners

Intelligent On-board Processing of Earth Observation Data

  • VIMOS – Verification of IMage analysis Onboard a Spacecraft
  • OBC-NG – On-Board-Computer Next Generation
  • AMARO - Autonomous Real-time Detection of mobile maritime Objects
  • ScOSA - Scalable On-Board Computing for Space Avionics

Completed Projects and Studies

  • VIBANASS – Vision Based Navigation Sensor System
  • FOSTERNAV – Flash Optical Sensor for Terrain Relative Robotic Navigation
  • iBOSS – intelligent Building blocks for On-orbit Satellite Servicing
  • PRISMA – Prototype Research Instruments and Space Mission technology Advancement
  • DEOS – German Orbital Servicing Mission
  • OLEV – Oribital Life Extension Vehicle

Contact

Florian Rems

German Aerospace Center (DLR)
Space Operations and Astronaut Training
Spaceflight Technology
Münchener Straße 20, 82234 Oberpfaffenhofen-Weßling