Image courtesy GMV
 
The activity focuses on the development and demonstration of data processing algorithms designed to detect, identify, and characterise space launch events using heterogeneous observational data sources. The work contributes to the continual enhancement of the UK’s Space Domain Awareness (SDA) capability, enabling more timely detection of catalogue changes and improved understanding of launch related activity.

 
Under the contract, GMV will develop and validate a proof of concept capability addressing two primary technical objectives. The first objective is the characterisation of detected launch events, distinguishing between different launch types. For each case, the algorithms will assess the intended trajectory and end state of the launch, including identifying the region of space targeted by ASAT activity, the potential impact region on Earth for ballistic missiles and the intended target orbit for nominal space launches.
 
The second objective focuses on the optimisation of the contributing sensor network supporting launch detection and characterisation. This includes analysing how sensor coverage, geometry and data quality affect the ability to identify and assess launch events and exploring approaches to improve overall performance through more effective use of heterogeneous sensor data.
 
The activity will address technical challenges associated with uncertainty management, sparse or non cooperative observations as well as scalable processing across multiple sensor types. The work is intended to demonstrate both technical feasibility and analytical value within an NSpOC operational context.
 
The award builds on GMV’s established expertise in Space Surveillance and Tracking (SST), Space Situational Awareness (SSA) and mission critical systems. GMV’s approach applies innovative algorithms to extract actionable insights from observational data, supporting analysis functions relevant to catalogue integrity, event assessment and operational prioritisation.
 
Mark Dumville, director of GMV’s Aerospace sector in UK said: “This contract underscores GMV’s expanding role in advancing the UK’s Space Domain Awareness capabilities and supporting the continued evolution of national space operations in an increasingly complex operational environment.”  

Angus Stewart, Joint Head of the National Space Operations Centre at the UK Space Agency, said: “This contract with GMV demonstrates our commitment to strengthening the UK’s Space Domain Awareness capabilities at a time when understanding activity in orbit has never been more important. By developing advanced algorithms to detect and characterize launch events, we are enhancing the analytical tools available to the National Space Operations Centre and reinforcing the UK’s position as a responsible space nation. This work shows how collaboration with industry partners can drive the rapid development of solutions that support both national security and the long-term sustainability of the space environment.”
 
The work is being delivered as part of the UK Space Agency’s Contracts for Innovation programme, which fosters rapid development of novel R&D solutions with the potential to inform future operational capabilities. GMV’s activity will focus on algorithm development, technical validation and assessment of applicability to existing analytical workflows, providing a foundation for potential follow on development and integration into the NSpOC.
 
This launch monitoring capability is designed to complement wider UK space operations initiatives, contributing to increased resilience, safety and sustainability of the space environment through improved detection and understanding of space activity.