Title:
Toward Sustainable Cislunar Operations through Autonomous Object Detection
Agreement Number:
25EXPROSS4
Agreement Value:
$225,000.00
Agreement Date:
Mar 26, 2026 - Mar 31, 2029
Description:
This project develops autonomous technologies to help spacecraft safely navigate around the Moon by detecting nearby objects and monitoring surface changes without needing constant contact with Earth. As lunar activity increases, particularly on the far side of the Moon, spacecraft must independently identify artificial objects, natural debris, and changes on the surface caused by meteoroid impacts. The first activity focuses on detecting recent surface changes using variations in albedo captured by onboard sensors. The second analyzes how both natural and artificial objects reflect sunlight, enabling spacecraft to determine their position, motion, and mass properties. The third activity creates 3D models of the lunar environment to define potential logical spaces, digital zones representing future landing sites, exploration areas, or infrastructure. These models help spacecraft understand their surroundings and support planning for long-term lunar operations. Altogether, the project advances safe, autonomous operations in cislunar space and supports sustainable development around the Moon.
Organization:
Canadian Space Agency
Expected Results:
The Research component of the program provides financial support to organizations to conduct space related research and development in priority areas. It will support targeted knowledge development and innovation to sustain and enhance the Canadian capacity to use space to address national needs and priorities in the future.
Location:
Calgary, Alberta, CA T2N 1N4
Reference Number:
003-2025-2026-Q4-00026
Report Type:
Grants and Contributions
Recipient's Legal Name:
The Governors of the University of Calgary
Program:
Class Grant and Contribution Program to Support Research, Awareness and Learning in Space Science and Technology
Program Purpose:
This program supports knowledge development and innovation in the CSA's priority areas while increasing the awareness and participation of Canadians in space-related disciplines and activities.
The Research Component aims to support the development of science and technology; foster the continual development of a critical mass of researchers and highly qualified people in Canada; and support information gathering and space-related studies and research pertaining to Canadian Space Agency priorities.