Space Debris Mapping with Photonic Integrated Circuit Lidar

2026-07-22

The SPIDAR project addresses the growing threat of space debris by developing a low-cost, easily deployable system for in-situ detection of small space debris (SSD) using photonic integrated circuit (PIC)-based lidar technology. SSD, particularly debris smaller than 10 cm in size is challenging to detect with traditional methods such as ground-based radar but still poses significant risks to operational satellites. SPIDAR will leverage the advantages of photonic integration to create an efficient, compact CubeSat-compatible lidar system capable of detecting debris as small as 1 mm in a virtual detection area of 1 m². This project involves development of a novel gallium arsenide (GaAs) based PIC platform with laser output power >500 mW and a wavelength near 1 µm. This system will drastically reduce size, weight, and power consumption compared to similar lidars at this wavelength, making it suitable for small satellites like CubeSats. The project is divided into three key goals: the design and fabrication of the GaAs-based lidar PIC; demonstration of lidar functionality in a laboratory setting; and the development and validation of a satellite payload demonstrator. The lidar system will use a frequency modulated continuous wave (FMCW) architecture, with all essential transmitter components integrated on a single chip. SPIDAR will demonstrate its ability to detect SSD in a lab environment and validate the system's performance through environmental testing to ensure its suitability for space deployment. By developing a CubeSat-compatible, PIC-based lidar system, the SPIDAR project contributes to the protection of space infrastructure by enabling more accurate mapping and detection of SSD in low Earth orbit. The scalable, low-cost nature of this technology makes it a critical tool for future space debris monitoring missions, enhancing space situational awareness and mitigating collision risks.

Finland

2025-10-01