HEO has been chosen by Space Machines Company to support its on-orbit servicing and space debris mitigation demonstration, Space-MAITRI, which is scheduled to launch in late 2026.
“Space Machines’ partnership with HEO continues to go from strength to strength, with local collaboration and innovation integral to the future of the local space ecosystem,” Space Machines Company CEO and Founder, Rajat Kulshrestha, said. “The integration of HEO’s NEI Camera and advanced imagery capabilities will play a critical role in Space MAITRI’s mission of safeguarding on-orbit assets and advancing sustainable space exploration.”
This Australian collaboration will see HEO’s advanced non-Earth imaging (NEI) camera integrated into Space Machines Company’s Rapid Response Vehicle, Optimus Viper. The mission, HEO says, will represent a major step forward for Australia’s space capabilities and international space partnerships.
“Adding HEO’s NEI camera to Space Machines Company’s Optimus Viper provides another proof point for the demand of high-quality in-orbit insights on dangerous space debris,” Co-Founder & CEO of HEO, Will Crowe, stated. “We’re excited to partner on this mission and work towards our shared vision of a more sustainable space environment.”
The Holmes Mk2 camera builds on its predecessor, Holmes Imager, with enhanced resolution while maintaining its compact design, which allows better imagery of space objects and data for space debris monitoring and mitigation efforts.