The MP42 satellite, which has been in low Earth orbit for two and a half years, recently sustained a 6 mm hole in its solar panel, likely caused by an impact from space debris or a micrometeoroid.

Despite this damage, the MP42 satellite has continued its mission without interruption, with the impact being detected through an onboard selfie camera image taken in October 2024.

The exact timing of the impact remains uncertain, as the last selfie of the satellite was captured in April 2023.

To combat the risks of space debris, NanoAvionics employs artificial intelligence and machine learning for space situational awareness, predicting potential collisions and optimizing satellite maneuvers.

Over the past decade, NanoAvionics has launched nearly 50 satellites and has performed only a few collision avoidance maneuvers, with a recent maneuver significantly reducing the risk of collision.

The International Space Station has executed 32 collision avoidance maneuvers since 1999, highlighting the ongoing risk of collisions with debris in space.

In response to the growing concern over space debris, the European Space Agency has initiated the Zero Debris Charter, aiming for zero space debris by 2030, with participation from over 100 organizations.

Currently, there are nearly 3 million kg of man-made objects in low Earth orbit, including both active and inactive satellites, with approximately 60,000 kg classified as debris.

Design strategies for satellites focus on protecting sensitive components and minimizing exposure to debris to enhance resilience against impacts.

NanoAvionics conducts rigorous testing on its satellites to ensure reliability, employs clean release mechanisms for components, and equips long-lifetime satellites with propulsion systems for controlled deorbiting.

Data from NASA's Long Duration Exposure Facility indicates that small particles frequently collide with spacecraft, with recorded impact craters ranging from 0.1 mm to 3 mm in size.