Hellenic Technology of Robotics (HTR-V) is proud to announce its participation in the European Defence Fund (EDF) 2023 project BODYGUARD, a pioneering initiative aimed at enhancing the autonomy and resilience of European space assets. This project seeks to develop advanced onboard capabilities for Space Situational Awareness (SSA), enabling satellites to independently detect, assess, and counteract a diverse range of threats.
Coordinated by Agenium Space from France, the BODYGUARD consortium brings together a diverse group of organizations from across Europe, including:
- Elenic Teknolotzy of Rompotiks Symmetochon Societe Anonyme (HTR-V) (Greece)
- Emtronix SARL (Luxembourg)
- Network Research Belgium SA (Belgium)
- Optronic Instruments & Products (Belgium)
- Oulun Yliopisto (Finland)
- Photonic (Latvia)
- Polar Orbital OY (Finland)
- Share My Space (France)
- Space Inventor APS (Denmark)
- Vimotek AB (Sweden)
BODYGUARD represents a significant advancement in the field of autonomous space defense. By focusing on the development of onboard SSA capabilities, the project aims to reduce reliance on ground-based systems, thereby increasing the operational independence and superiority of European satellites. These capabilities will enable satellites to autonomously detect potential threats, assess their severity, and implement appropriate countermeasures, such as deploying robotic interventions or laser systems to neutralize hazards.
HTR’s role in the BODYGUARD project focuses on advancing cutting-edge robotic solutions to safeguard critical space assets. Central to this effort is the development of a state-of-the-art robotic arm, built upon the precision and adaptability of a custom-designed Stewart Platform. With six Degrees of Freedom (DOF) and micron-level accuracy, this advanced platform enables unprecedented versatility in handling proximity operations, while ensuring seamless integration with various optical and radar instruments required for on-board Space Situational Awareness (SSA).
In addition to its work on the robotic arm, HTR is contributing to the definition of satellite platform requirements for on-board SSA applications. This includes analyzing mission-specific needs to ensure compatibility with future space platforms and optimizing resource allocation for SSA subsystems. Such efforts are vital in tailoring solutions that meet the operational demands of current and forthcoming missions.
HTR is also at the forefront of developing autonomous decision-making frameworks for self-protective actions in the event of an attack. By leveraging artificial intelligence, the company is enabling satellites to autonomously identify threats, assess incoming hazards, and initiate countermeasures. This integration of robotics and AI underscores HTR’s commitment to enhancing the resilience, autonomy, and defense capabilities of European space assets.
Through its active participation in the BODYGUARD project, HTR exemplifies its unwavering commitment to advancing cutting-edge technological innovations and bolstering Europe’s defense capabilities. By pushing the boundaries of robotics, AI-driven autonomy, and precision engineering, HTR plays a pivotal role in addressing the evolving challenges of space defense. The company’s contributions not only strengthen the resilience and security of space assets but also pave the way for groundbreaking applications in the wider space industry. In an era where space is becoming an increasingly contested and critical domain, HTR reaffirms its dedication to shaping the future of autonomous space solutions, safeguarding strategic assets, and supporting Europe’s leadership in this essential frontier.