Slingshot Aerospace has entered into a significant contract with the UK Space Agency aimed at enhancing the country’s satellite tracking capabilities through the use of artificial intelligence and advanced optical sensors. This collaboration is particularly timely as the issue of orbital congestion continues to escalate.
In its announcement, Slingshot highlighted that this integration of technology will improve the UK’s ability to monitor satellites, space debris, and other near-Earth objects with greater precision. The initiative prioritizes bolstering London’s sovereign space domain awareness amidst the increasing complexity of space traffic.
As part of this agreement, the project will see the deployment of 13 new optical sensor systems across five strategic locations worldwide. Each unit will feature autonomous AllSky Domes, developed in collaboration with Baader Planetarium, ensuring round-the-clock functionality regardless of weather conditions.
Angus Stewart, head of the National Space Operations Centre (NSpOC), emphasized the importance of this partnership for protecting UK and allied interests in outer space, while also ensuring sustainable usage of orbital regions in the long run.
For Slingshot Aerospace, this contract represents an opportunity to expand its global presence in space traffic management and to enhance its capabilities in data-driven orbital monitoring. The company currently operates more than 200 sensors distributed across 21 locations globally.
The UK is increasingly integrating AI into its strategy for enhancing space surveillance capabilities. Notably, in October 2025, the UK Space Command began testing AI-enabled algorithms aimed at predicting potential satellite collisions, utilizing real-time data gathered from both radar and optical sensors.
Additionally, the NSpOC has been advancing its Aurora program, which harnesses AI to analyze sensor data and detect unusual activities, such as unregistered satellites or unexpected orbital maneuvers. Earlier this year, the UK Space Agency also established an AI innovation fund designed to support private companies in developing predictive maintenance tools for spacecraft and monitoring satellite health.
