TECHNOLOGY LICENSING OPPORTUNITY - Spacecraft Speedometer: Satellite Velocity Detection

Description

The Spacecraft Speedometer provides real-time velocity measurements for satellites without relying on GPS, which can be unreliable at low altitudes, in high-radiation environments and during geomagnetic storms. The technology has been successfully tested in space and is ready for scaling and commercialization. We are seeking a manufacturing partner or system integrator to refine production and deploy this technology into commercial and defense satellite markets. How it Works: Using a dual-sensor head electrostatic analyzer (ESA), it determines velocity by analyzing ambient space plasma charged particles, offering a self-contained, compact, and power-efficient solution for better orbital tracking and space weather monitoring. Designed as a small size, weight, and power (SWaP) payload for small satellite platforms, this system fills a critical gap in spacecraft navigation, improving operational efficiency while reducing reliance on external tracking systems. As spacecraft and probes travel to planets and moons where GPS isn�t available, the Spacecraft Speedometer provides a critical navigation solution for deep-space missions. By enabling precise velocity measurements in these GPS-denied environments, it supports autonomous spacecraft operations, improves mission planning, and ensures accurate trajectory control for planetary exploration and interplanetary travel. Key Advantages: Velocity Measurement: Directly measures spacecraft speed in situ, improving orbit prediction and maneuver planning. Compact & Low-Power Design: Optimized for CubeSats and small satellites, making it cost-effective and scalable. Enhanced Space Weather Monitoring: Provides real-time data to mitigate space weather disruptions that impact spacecraft performance. Increased Accuracy for Satellite Tracking: Reduces reliance on GPS, which struggles at low altitudes and certain latitudes, especially during intense space weather events. Space Deployment: Successfully tested on the International Space Station (ISS), validating its accuracy Problems Solved: Unlike traditional satellite velocity tracking, which relies on GPS or ground-based radar, the Spacecraft Speedometer provides direct, onboard velocity measurements using a dual-sensor laminated-head electrostatic analyzer (ESA). This system detects and analyzes charged particles in space, filtering them based on energy and trajectory to determine spacecraft velocity in real time. The laminated-head design enhances measurement accuracy and efficiency by optimizing particle detection and reducing noise. Because it does not depend on external signals, it remains effective in GPS-limited environments, such as low-altitude or high-radiation regions. Its compact, low-power design makes it well-suited for CubeSats, small satellites, and larger spacecraft, improving orbital prediction and mission planning while reducing reliance on external tracking systems. Market Applications: Small Satellite & CubeSat Operators: Enhances tracking for satellites where GPS is unreliable. Space Weather Monitoring & Forecasting: Provides critical velocity data to predict space weather disruptions. Government & Defense Agencies: Supports space domain awareness and collision avoidance. Satellite Manufacturers & System Integrators: Can be easily integrated into commercial and defense satellite systems. With the space weather forecasting market projected to grow to $2.8B by 2032, this technology offers a low-cost, scalable alternative to traditional tracking methods, enabling more autonomous, cost-effective space operations. Development Status: Technology Readiness Level 3 Component Prototypes Built and Proof-of-Concept Testing Completed US Patent Pending LA-UR-25-22649 Access: https://www.lanl.gov/engage/collaboration/feynman-center/tech-and-capability-search/spacecraft-speedometer LANL Tech Partnerships: Unlock the Innovative Potential Los Alamos National Laboratory offers a wide range of cutting-edge technologies and capabilities that may provide your company with a competitive edge in the market and unlock the innovative potential that can enhance, refine, and revolutionize your products. LANL�s licensing program focuses on moving inventions developed by our researchers to commercial innovations. Patented and patent pending inventions and copyrighted software are available to existing and start-up companies through exclusive and non-exclusive licensing agreements. For specific discussions, please contact licensing@lanl.gov. Note: This is not a call for external services for the development of this technology. https://www.lanl.gov/engage/collaboration/feynman-center/partner-with-us/licensing-technology https://www.lanl.gov/engage/collaboration/feynman-center/tech-and-capability-search