The French space agency (CNES) selects Exotrail to optimise mega constellation operations
In February 2022, following a competitive tender process, CNES selected Exotrail to complete a
research and technology study to optimise the operations of mega constellations.
The study will focus on mid and low earth orbit where thousands of satellites are soon expected to be
operational and propelled by electric propulsion. It will determine the best operational procedures to
implement in mega constellation’s flight dynamic system including station keeping and collision
avoidance – two critical operations.
Ultimately, Exotrail will design and build algorithms able to optimise and automate mega constellation
operations, improving efficiency and reducing human error.
Sébastien Duménil, Chief Commercial Officer commented on the study: “We are very proud to have been
selected by CNES for this mega constellation operations optimisation study. Exotrail’s experts will
leverage our core capabilities in flight dynamics and electric propulsion, key building blocks of our
ExoOPSTM software suite, dedicated to mission simulation and constellation operations”.
ABOUT EXOTRAIL:
Exotrail is a France-based space company which designs, develops, and operates end-to-end mobility
solutions for an agile space. Our mission is to enable small satellites to move in space, optimise their
deployment, increase their performance, and reduce space pollution. Thanks to this, a new world of
telecommunication, earth observation and space exploration will arise. Our mobility solutions address
the entire space value chain: highly flexible high-thrust propulsion systems for small satellites
(ExoMGTM), mission simulation and operations software (ExoOPSTM), and In-Orbit Services
(SpaceVanTM). Exotrail was incorporated in 2017 and has since raised over €20M from prestigious
venture capital funds and public grants. Our team consists of over 55 people who are passionate about
disrupting the space industry. We operate out of two locations: Toulouse and Massy (suburb of Paris) in
France.
Social medias:
Linkedin, Twitter & Instagram: @exotrail
