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NASA launched four 6U CubeSats into Earth’s orbit in July 2023 as part of the “Starling” mission. The goal of the mission is to test the satellites’ ability to work together autonomously without real-time updates from mission management. Each satellite is positioned approximately 355 miles above Earth, spaced roughly 40 miles apart. CubeSats are nanosatellites that use standardized dimensions and form factors, with the basic unit size being 10x10x10 cm.

CubeSats were originally created in 1999 by Stanford University and California Polytechnic State University as a learning and space exploration platform. Today, CubeSats offer an affordable platform for scientific research, technology demonstrations, and advanced mission concepts using constellations, swarms, and disaggregated systems.

The Starling mission aims to investigate technological advancements for future deep space missions that require complex and autonomous spacecraft. The mission involves four CubeSats named Blinky, Pinky, Inky, and Clyde, which will operate in two different formations to test technologies enabling satellite swarms to work cooperatively in deep space.

Swarm technologies have several scientific advantages, including the ability to collect data from different locations in space, create self-patching networks, and develop spacecraft systems that can react to environmental changes without relying on communication with Earth. The redundancy of each spacecraft within a swarm makes the swarm more resistant to failures or malfunctions.

In addition to the technical objectives, the Starling mission also aims to explore the possibility of teaming up the small satellites with SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet constellation. NASA and SpaceX will exchange information to coordinate activities securely. This development is part of a larger space traffic management program.

The Starling mission was made possible by Blue Canyon Technologies, a manufacturer of small satellites and a mission services provider. Blue Canyon Technologies provided four 6U CubeSats to the Small Spacecraft Technology program.

The launch of the CubeSats was undertaken by Rocket Lab’s Electron Rocket. Rocket Lab successfully retrieved the first stage of its Electron rocket, demonstrating its commitment to reusing rocket boosters for more sustainable space exploration.

The successful completion of the Starling mission will open up new possibilities for deep space exploration and scientific research. NASA’s dedication to advancing cosmic understanding through creative and collaborative robotic missions is exemplified by this mission. Furthermore, the mission contributes to our understanding of space traffic management regulations.

The Starling mission represents a significant advancement in testing autonomous cooperation and collision avoidance technologies in space. NASA aims to improve the effectiveness and security of upcoming deep space missions by utilizing swarm technologies and autonomous capabilities, which have the potential to revolutionize space exploration and advance scientific research.

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