Spacecraft Autonomy

Spacecraft autonomy refers to a spacecraft's ability to operate and make decisions independently without constant human intervention. This capability allows spacecraft to navigate, perform tasks, and respond to unforeseen circumstances using onboard sensors and software. Autonomy is crucial for missions far from Earth, like those to Mars or deep space, where communication delays make real-time control impractical. By relying on advanced algorithms and artificial intelligence, autonomous spacecraft can optimize their operations, conserve resources, and ensure mission success, enhancing our exploration of the universe.