HEO has been selected by Space Machines Company to support its Space-MAITRI on-orbit servicing and space debris mitigation demonstration scheduled to launch in late 2026.
The collaboration will see HEO’s advanced non-Earth imaging (NEI) camera integrated into Space Machines Company’s Australian-built Rapid Response Vehicle, Optimus Viper. The mission represents a major step forward for Australia’s space capabilities and international space partnerships.
The Holmes Mk2 camera builds on its successful predecessor, Holmes Imager, with enhanced resolution while maintaining its compact design, enabling superior imagery of space objects and better data for space debris monitoring and mitigation efforts.
“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,” said Rajat Kulshrestha, Space Machines Company CEO and Founder. “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.”
“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,” said Will Crowe, Co-Founder & CEO of HEO. “We’re excited to partner on this mission and work towards our shared vision of a more sustainable space environment.”
Space MAITRI is a joint Australian-Indian mission to show progress toward space debris management and a sustainable space environment. This project received grant funding from the Australian Government via the Australian Space Agency and will see Space Machines Company’s second spacecraft launched on NSIL’s Small Satellite Launch Vehicle.
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