Space Machines Company unveils security spacecraft Optimus Viper
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The news: Startup Space Machines Company (SMC) has unveiled Optimus Viper — a rapid-response spacecraft designed to protect space infrastructure.
The context: Optimus Viper is able to conduct detailed observations and technical inspections on satellites, This can help identify problems such as power system malfunctions and potentially help stabilise its system. It could also determine whether a satellite needs life extension services or if it needs to be replaced.
It is also able to position itself to act as a protective shield if a satellite is at risk of a collision.
The 200-kilogram class spacecraft can deploy within 24 hours of launch and operate within 10 kilometres of target satellites, representing a significant advancement in space security technology as traditional satellites cannot safely approach other satellites.
SMC is offering commercial pricing for proximity inspection at USD2 million to USD3 million ($3 million to $4.6 million) per inspection in low earth orbit, substantially lower than current costs that run into tens of millions.
The company claims it will manufacture these vehicles at one-tenth of the current cost for similar capabilities. The platform builds on SMC's earlier Optimus satellite launch aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket earlier this year.
The announcement comes amid growing concerns about the security of space infrastructure worth trillions of dollars. SMC is planning multiple capability missions throughout 2026 to demonstrate the system's effectiveness across various orbital regimes. The company is expanding its Australian manufacturing capabilities to produce Optimus Viper Rapid Response Vehicles at scale.
What they said: "During a time of rapidly evolving threats, space sustainability and security isn't defined by the size of our systems but by their resilience and adaptability," said Rajat Kulshrestha, chief executive officer and co-founder of Space Machines Company.
"Optimus Viper will revolutionise how we operate in space by delivering distributed and dynamic capabilities at a fraction of traditional costs."
Lieutenant General Larry James, former deputy director of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and newly appointed adviser to SMC, said: "Allied-by-design isn't just a feature — it's the foundation for effective space operations. By developing capabilities that are inherently interoperable, we multiply our collective effectiveness while sharing costs".
The source: SMC press release
