UB

The University at Buffalo is working on two new space debris-tracking satellites for Nasa and the US Air Force.

Named the glint analysing data observation satellite (Glados), the briefcase-sized microsatellite features cameras, sensors and other gizmos, which are designed to monitor space junk that orbit earth.

University at Buffalo School of Engineering and Applied Sciences space situational awareness CUBRC professor John Crassidis said: "Space debris is a growing problem that threatens not only the International Space Station and other human-occupied spacecraft, but also satellites that we rely upon for weather prediction, navigation, communications and other important matters."

Nasa estimates that more than 20,000 pieces of debris are orbiting Earth at speeds up to 17,500mph.

These objects have the potential to damage functioning satellites, and other spacecraft, according to the National Research Council.

"Space debris is a growing problem that threatens…satellites that we rely upon for weather prediction, navigation, communications and other important matters."

As most of the debris is said to exist in low-Earth orbit, researchers will be able to identify their mass and size using telescopes and radar; however, the same capability will not facilitate tracking in high-Earth orbit, which is 22,000 miles from earth’s surface.

Glados will compute the sun’s reflection off space debris in high-Earth orbit, and help researchers determine the size, shape, spin and path of the debris while in orbit.

Earlier this year, the aerial branch of the Air Force granted $110,000 to the University at Buffalo for the project.

Nasa selected the University at Buffalo in 2013 to build the space junk tracking satellite for CubeSat.

The Air Force is expected to launch Glados in 2017, while Nasa’s is planned to follow in 2018.

Image: University at Buffalo students building debris-tracking satellites. Photo courtesy of Douglas Levere.