France's Defence Innovation Agency Taps Dark for Space Defence Interception

The Defence Innovation Agency (DIA) has launched Salazar, a new study to explore space defense capabilities. In partnership with the French startup Dark, the DIA will simulate light-Earth orbit (LEO) missions using advanced digital models.

Dark's technology is designed to provide rapid response to space defense emergencies. Its multi-stage access system can swiftly reach specific orbital points, overcoming weather and orbital transfer limitations. A robotic module, integrated into the final stage, is capable of capturing target objects.

By inputting a target's orbital parameters, Dark's Salazar simulation can identify the optimal interception strategy, considering mission objectives, performance, and time constraints.

Through the Salazar program, the DIA aims to evaluate Dark's technology for potential applications in post-2030 LEO operations. The study will assess the feasibility of in-orbit payload transfer and maneuver, which is essential for characterizing critical situations and responding to potential space interference, the DIA said.

To further refine the simulation, the DIA will present Dark with a hypothetical target equipped with escape or alert systems. Dark will then devise multiple interception scenarios to demonstrate the technology's effectiveness.

Previously, in 2023, Dark conducted an emergency interception study for the French Space Agency (CNES). This study, which targeted a piece of space debris, marked the inaugural test of Dark's advanced simulations. By analyzing the results, Dark said it was able to identify critical mission segments that could benefit from autonomous operations. This successful test also showcased the dual-use potential of the company's technology.

Launching a rocket or missile destined for Space from an aircraft is not a new concept.  Virgin Orbit (now defunct) had its LaucherOne system which launched payloads to orbit using a modified Boeing 747. A newer entrant, Astraius, will launch rockets from the back of C-17s. The idea of Dark is more akin to an F-15 which tested an ASM-135A anti-satellite missile (ASAT) and destroyed the failing P78-1 Solwind satellite in 1985. With orbital debris becoming an ever-increasing problem, Dark's novel approach will likely find a place within the Space market.