Autonosat

Autonosat is a term for spacecraft designed to operate with a high degree of onboard autonomy. Such satellites can monitor their own health, perform fault isolation and recovery, plan payload activities, and execute orbital and attitude adjustments with limited human input.

The core architecture includes an onboard autonomy stack built on fault-tolerant avionics, real-time decision modules, and secure communications. Sensing hardware such as inertial measurement units, star trackers, and GNSS supports robust operation, while modular software and sandboxing reduce risk when updating functions.

Autonosat concepts are particularly appealing for large satellite constellations, remote sensing, and communications missions, where autonomous tasking can optimize data collection, scheduling, and contingency responses. They also have potential for deep-space or delayed-ground operations, enabling longer intervals between ground contacts.

Standards and governance focus on autonomy levels, safety, fault management, and cybersecurity, with input from space agencies and industry groups to ensure safe operation and appropriate human oversight.

Challenges include rigorous verification and validation, resilience to radiation and cyber threats, and ensuring reliable override or handover in emergencies. The field is evolving as research, demonstrations, and early mission deployments mature.