An Artificial CORTEX to Guide Satellite Rescue Missions

The Zombie Satellite Problem in Low-Earth Orbit

Thousands of inactive space assets, often referred to as "zombie satellites," orbit Earth in the highly critical Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) region. These satellites are either non-operational or have stopped broadcasting signal alerts about their presence to other spacecraft.

The CORTEX Autonomous Docking System

To address this orbital risk, researchers are building an artificial system called CORTEX. Designed specifically for satellite rescue and servicing missions, CORTEX provides intelligent guidance capabilities for repair spacecraft.

Future Implications for Orbital Safety

Using CORTEX, servicing satellites will be able to autonomously locate and dock with unresponsive zombie satellites. This technology paves the way for autonomous orbital repairs and proactive debris mitigation in Earth's orbit.