The consortium, led by space robotics company PIAP Space, said this step covers the detailed design of the vehicle and the definition of its first demonstration mission.
Raven (Rendez-Vous and Proximity Vehicle for Enabling Multi-Mission) is an in-space transportation vehicle. In practice, that means a platform that is able to change orbits, perform close-range maneuvers and carry out controlled de-orbiting.
The team plans a first flight, called Raven Demo I, in 2029 to prove out these core technologies.
Project leaders say the program will strengthen Poland’s role in Europe’s space sector and improve the resilience of satellite infrastructure.
They point to rendezvous and proximity operations (RPO) as a strategic skill set. This involves autonomous close-approach and inspection maneuvers in space, which are essential for servicing and debris-removal tasks.
“This is a major achievement for PIAP Space and a clear direction for the company,” said Anna Nikodym-Bilska, business development manager of PIAP Space.
“With European Space Agency recognition in this field, we are confident we can compete with the biggest European players and deliver technologies that reinforce the security and sovereignty of Europe’s on-orbit infrastructure," she added.
Project manager Mateusz Krawczak called Raven “a model example of broad cooperation” that shows Polish institutions and firms can develop advanced technologies together.
The Raven consortium includes PIAP Space as lead; Creotech Instruments; the Łukasiewicz Research Network’s Institute of Aviation, a leading Polish aerospace research center; Warsaw's Military University of Technology; software and electronics company AROBS Polska, satellite communications provider GMV Poland; Slovak space technology company Space Scavengers; and data processing provider Zaitra.
Partners are developing propulsion systems, the onboard computer, the platform structure, navigation and communications, and associated control software.
The work is being carried out with support from the European Space Agency (ESA), the Polish Space Agency (POLSA), the Polish Ministry of Development and Technology and the Ministry of Defence.
The head of the European Space Agency, Josef Aschbacher, said last month that Poland could become a European leader in parts of the space industry. He added that the agency was ready to help Warsaw set up a national satellite operations center.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced earlier last month that Poland would establish a satellite operations center to support its growing space industry and strengthen national security.
(rt/gs)
Source: PAP