Astroscale, a company that proved it could inspect and capture objects in orbit, says the same technology can protect satellites from hostile approaches. Its head of defense says a 'bodyguard' spacecraft could be launch-ready in under three years, costing a fraction of the satellites it would shield.
Russia has repeatedly maneuvered close to Western satellites, including a 2024 approach to an ICEYE radar satellite without consent. Satellites carry communications, navigation, and intelligence that militaries and daily life depend on. Affordable guardian spacecraft could deter interference before expensive, vital assets are damaged.
✦ The tools built to clean up space may now help keep it safe.