An array of BlackGEM telescopes is currently being constructed in Chile. The Royal Netherlands Air Force wants to assess the suitability of the BlackGEM telescopes for initial orbit determination of unknown objects in high orbits around Earth. A set of short arc observations of geostationary satellites of no more than 5 minutes is available from a prototype of the BlackGEM telescope called MeerLICHT, which is located in South Africa. Using the classical initial orbit determination methods of Gauss and Gooding and a newly developed circular orbit method, orbit estimates are calculated based on the short arcs. In addition, two methods to reduce measurement error that are specific to the observation system are developed and tested. As a final outcome, recommendations for observation strategies and orbit determination methods are formulated to optimise BlackGEM telescopes for satellite orbit determination.

Piazzi is a mission to the 1989 UQ asteroid, with the goal of collecting a sample and returning it to Earth. This will be accomplished by sending a spacecraft to the asteroid, which will consist of three separate spacecraft. Firstly the orbiter, which houses the instruments needed to observe and map the asteroid, and the primary propulsion and communications systems. Then two spacecraft will detach from the orbiter, and each collect a sample in a distinct manner. One, ACSAL, will land on the asteroid, and collect a core sample using a drill. The other, SASH, will hover above the surface, and collect a regolith sample. Both ACSAL and SASH will return to Earth individually, shoot off a reentry capsule with the sample and burn up in the atmosphere themselves.