Terma’s Crucial Role in ESA’s Ramses Mission: Safeguarding Earth through Planetary Defence

Danish aerospace leader Terma has joined forces with the European Space Agency (ESA) to support the ambitious Ramses mission, an integral component of ESA’s Space Safety programme. This collaboration is designed to enhance planetary defense mechanisms by studying the asteroid Apophis during its historic close approach to Earth in 2029.

The Ramses spacecraft, set for launch in April 2028, will arrive at Apophis two months before the asteroid’s closest pass to Earth. Measuring around 375 meters in diameter, Apophis will skim within 32,000 kilometers of Earth—closer than many satellites in orbit. This event offers a unique opportunity to observe how Earth’s gravity affects the asteroid’s orbit, rotation, and surface features.

Terma’s Role: The Remote Terminal Unit (RTU)

At the heart of Terma’s involvement is its state-of-the-art Remote Terminal Unit (RTU). This vital technology, which has previously been used successfully in ESA’s HERA mission, is designed to manage the spacecraft’s propulsion, communication, and other essential systems. Known for its reliability under extreme space conditions, the RTU acts as a bridge between the spacecraft's subsystems, enabling seamless operations throughout the mission.

The RTU’s technical specifications showcase its versatility. It integrates with the spacecraft’s On-Board Computer (OBC) to monitor and control critical systems such as thermal regulation, Attitude and Orbit Control Systems (AOCS), and sensor arrays. Its modular design ensures easy customization, making it adaptable for Ramses’ specific objectives.

Advancing Scientific Knowledge and Defence

The Ramses mission is a significant leap in understanding asteroid behavior. By observing Apophis before, during, and after its Earth flyby, scientists aim to gain insights into how near-Earth objects respond to external forces. Such data is crucial for developing strategies to deflect potentially hazardous asteroids, thereby improving Earth’s planetary defense capabilities.

The spacecraft’s advanced instrumentation will analyze changes in Apophis’s physical structure, including potential shifts in its spin rate or the emergence of surface cracks due to tidal forces. These observations will provide a wealth of information to refine asteroid mitigation techniques.

A Testament to Collaboration

Terma’s involvement underscores its commitment to space safety and scientific advancement. “Terma is proud to contribute to the Ramses mission by providing our proven Remote Terminal Unit technology. This partnership highlights our dedication to delivering innovative solutions that drive progress in planetary defense,” said Günther Lackner, Senior Vice President at Terma Space.

Building a Safer Future

The Ramses mission exemplifies the power of international collaboration and technological innovation in addressing global challenges. With Terma’s reliable RTU technology playing a pivotal role, the mission is set to deliver groundbreaking discoveries that will shape the future of planetary defense. By participating in this landmark effort, Terma not only supports the scientific community but also takes a critical step toward safeguarding Earth against extraterrestrial threats.