CSA

Canadian Space Agency (CSA) has awarded a contract worth $1.7m to Neptec Design Group to develop an advanced space vision system for the International Space Station (ISS).

The system will have three sensors, including a 3D laser, a high-definition camera and an infrared camera to monitor and maintain the ageing infrastructure of the ISS.

Planned to be launched in 2020, the vision system will be mounted on Dextre, the two-armed robot of CSA, and attached to the ISS.

With the new vision system, which is the size of a microwave oven, Dextre will detect any damage in external surfaces of the ISS due to the harsh space environment and the station’s natural ageing.

The orbiting ISS is frequently being hit by small meteorites and orbital debris.

Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development of Canada Navdeep Bains said: "Designing and developing technology for the International Space Station has allowed Canadian space companies to become world leaders in space robotics and optics.

"Designing and developing technology for the International Space Station has allowed Canadian space companies to become world leaders in space robotics and optics."

"The government of Canada is pleased to contribute this new technology that combines these strengths, while giving the world a new vantage point on the International Space Station."

To keep the ISS operational, risky methods include sending astronauts out on spacewalks to take close-up photos of the damage.

The new vision system will be controlled by mission controllers on the ground from Nasa’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas or CSA’s headquarters in St Hubert, Quebec.

The public will be able to view the images to be taken by the system.

Neptec Design Group CEO Paul Nephin said: "Neptec is pleased to have this opportunity to adapt our world-class 3D LIDAR and infrared camera technologies to enhance the safe operation of the International Space Station and support future space exploration.

"Spin-offs from the technology will give us an edge in world markets for Earth applications such as increased mining productivity, safer operation of subsea oil and gas infrastructure, and guiding self-driving vehicles."

Image: The vision system will monitor external damages at ISS. Photo: courtesy of CSA.