The new space laser system will be able to protect spacecraft from collisions using advanced artificial intelligence algorithms.

NASA, in collaboration with West Virginia University, is developing a multifunctional space laser system that could protect the nation’s space assets from catastrophic collisions and other potential space threats. Using artificial intelligence algorithms, these space lasers will deflect and even deorbit objects that could threaten satellites operating in low Earth orbit. If the technology is successful, this system could be used to deflect an approaching asteroid.

More and more countries are launching their own satellites into space as part of space exploration programs, the vast majority of which are in low Earth orbit. As a result, this region is becoming increasingly “populated” with damaged or malfunctioning satellites.

Because of the tremendously high speeds, even the smallest of these pieces of debris could have catastrophic consequences for operating satellites, other spacecraft, and even humans working on the ISS. The ISS had to change orbit several times to avoid collision with space debris. The situation has gotten so bad that many scientists around the world have even called for an agreement to be reached to alleviate the threat from space debris.

Many innovative solutions to the problem of unguided objects in low Earth orbit have been proposed or are under development. So NASA and West Virginia University began development of a new system.

Over the past several decades, the science and engineering of using lasers to defend against threats and neutralize targets has advanced significantly. Improvements in advanced military laser systems are currently being tested by the US Navy, Air Force and Army. The Israeli Ministry of Defense also deployed lasers to protect the borders from air threats. West Virginia University has received funding from NASA to develop an intelligent system that could use already developed laser technology to counter collision threats.

This system is not designed to destroy debris such as military lasers that shoot down missiles or drones. A space laser is designed to remove debris using pressure from laser light as well as a process called laser ablation. Laser ablation works on the mechanism of vaporization of a small part of the target, which creates a molten mass on the surface of the target. This mass, along with the laser’s photon pressure, blows the debris out of its orbit, changing its overall orbit just enough to avoid colliding with another object.

Another advantage of this system will be its versatility. Most proposed solutions to the space debris problem target large debris. This will be able to target small pieces of debris or pieces of debris that are difficult to recover from but could cause serious damage if it collided with a working satellite.

As mentioned, the long-term goal of the project is to create and deploy a worldwide network of space lasers. Source