NASA is backing a mission to inspect dead satellites up close. The SSPICY mission will demonstrate technologies for in-space inspection and servicing.

A spacecraft called Otter, built by Starfish Space, launched on October 1 from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. In early 2027 it will approach up to four inoperable US-origin objects in low Earth orbit.

Using autonomous guidance and computer vision, Otter will navigate within hundreds of yards of old satellites and rocket bodies. It will record their spin rate, orientation and surface condition.

An electric propulsion system will move it between targets. An articulating robotic boom will test precise manoeuvring between orbits.

The mission will not touch or dock with anything. It tests the technologies needed for future servicing, repairs or safe disposal of orbital debris.

Space junk is a growing hazard. Demonstrations like SSPICY could pave the way for missions that extend satellite life or drag dead objects into the atmosphere.