An Australian space company, HEO Robotics, is devising a novel mission: repurposing a defunct satellite to capture images of the asteroid Apophis during its exceptionally close flyby of Earth in April 2029. The plan involves acquiring a satellite nearing the end of its operational life and using its remaining fuel not for disposal in a “graveyard orbit”, but for a targeted approach to the asteroid.
Repurposing Space Debris for Scientific Gain
Satellites in geostationary orbit (GEO) typically end their mission by maneuvering into higher, inactive orbits to avoid collisions with functional spacecraft. HEO Robotics intends to intercept this process, purchasing a satellite with residual fuel and redirecting it towards Apophis. This asteroid, roughly 1,115 feet (340 meters) wide, will pass within 5.9 Earth radii of our planet – a rare event occurring on average only once every 7,500 years.
Why This Matters
The 2029 Apophis flyby presents a unique opportunity for scientists to study how a planet’s gravity influences an asteroid. Despite being categorized as “potentially hazardous,” Apophis poses no immediate threat during this encounter. The event’s significance lies in its rarity and the valuable data it can provide for future planetary defense efforts, and broader understanding of celestial mechanics.
Competition and Expansion
HEO Robotics won’t be alone in observing Apophis. NASA, the European Space Agency, and Japan are already preparing dedicated missions (OSIRIS-APEX, RAMSES, and DESTINY+) to study the asteroid before, during, and after its close approach. A Chinese probe may also participate.
HEO’s move signals a broader ambition to expand beyond Earth-based satellite imagery and provide on-demand views from across the solar system. As HEO Robotics co-founder Will Crowe states, the company sees a lack of imagination in current space exploration, and intends to change that by targeting other asteroids as well.
The plan is a testament to the growing commercialization of space, where even dying satellites can be repurposed for scientific and commercial gain. This approach not only reduces waste but also unlocks new opportunities for low-cost space exploration.
