GomSpace Tests GOMX-5 for Debris Avoidance Within 48 Hours of Launch

ESA-backed GOMX-5 is an 8U CubeSat built by GomSpace that launched aboard SpaceX’s Transporter-18 mission on October 1. The satellite is testing an iodine electric propulsion system designed to be commissioned within 48 hours of launch, allowing the spacecraft to become ready for potential collision-avoidance manoeuvres. The propulsion system is also intended to support end-of-life disposal in line with ESA’s Zero Debris approach. GOMX-5 also carries a compact radio-based payload designed to support maritime domain awareness by acquiring radio signals across multiple relevant frequency bands. Video Credit: ESA / GomSpace / SpaceX / GettyImages