Obruta Space Solutions Corp.
Computer Vision for Autonomous Spacecraft Docking — Current spacecraft docking systems are large and require lots of power due to the sensors used. This project develops modern monocular computer vision algorithms utilizing a combination of classical methods and artificial intelligence which enables the use of lightweight, inexpensive, and less power-intensive optical sensors when compared to Lidar and Radar sensors used in traditional spacecraft docking systems. The harsh lighting of the space environment reduces the reliability of vision-based systems. New algorithms and applied machine learning techniques are used to overcome such major challenges of vision-based spacecraft relative navigation systems. The development of such a system builds on Canada’s extensive heritage of spacecraft docking systems and has potential Earth-based applications with autonomous drones, manufacturing, agriculture robotics, and more. This project will create jobs for three highly qualified personnel and help situate Canada as an autonomy leader within th