French satellite startup U-Space partners with Neuraspace for satellite safety

Reuters Events SMR and Advanced Reactor 2025

French satellite startup U-Space partners with Neuraspace for satellite safety
by Robert Schreiber
Berlin, Germany (SPX) Nov 19, 2024

French startup U-Space, an innovator in the design and production of small satellites, has teamed up with Neuraspace to enhance the safety of its upcoming satellite missions.

U-Space has chosen Neuraspace's AI and machine learning-driven Space Traffic Management (STM) system to support the secure and effective operation of its two upcoming 12U small satellite missions. These satellites are set for deployment on SpaceX's Transporter-13 Mission in early 2025.

Neuraspace's advanced STM platform will automate U-Space's collision risk assessments, minimizing manual effort and reducing operational costs. The system offers U-Space real-time satellite tracking, automated alerts for potential conjunctions, and intelligent collision avoidance maneuvers, promoting more autonomous satellite management.

Fabien Apper, CEO of U-Space, noted, "This partnership will ensure that our satellites and future constellations benefit from the best-in-class STM solution, reducing the risk posed by increasing orbital traffic and space debris. To comply with and support existing regulations like the French Space Operations Act (FSOA) and ESA's space debris mitigation requirements, U-Space is making sure to implement best practices in space traffic management."

U-Space, based in Toulouse, France, focuses on developing and operating small satellites weighing up to 100 kg. Their satellite designs incorporate electric propulsion systems that support collision avoidance and other critical operations.

Neuraspace CEO Chiara Manfletti said, "Partnering with U-Space strengthens the safety and sustainability of their satellite operations at a time when space is becoming increasingly congested and contested. Our AI-powered STM platform ensures that, even in the face of growing orbital activities, U-Space's missions remain secure and efficient.

"Having signed new contracts with numerous satellite manufacturers and operators as well as the Portuguese Air Force and ESA this year, has demonstrated the need and our capabilities for operational space situational awareness and traffic management. We are monitoring over 350 satellites for established operators, helping them make informed, real-time decisions and extend the operational lifespan of their space assets."