Autonomy in satellite navigation and rendezvous and proximity operations (RPO) presents new opportunities for orbital verification, constellation resilience, and protection against disruptions to ground segments. At the same time, autonomy also reduces the number of decision points that can be directly attributed to intentional human action. Since attribution of irresponsible or aggressive behavior in orbit is already inherently challenging, the integration of autonomous systems further complicates strategic interpretation. In geopolitically sensitive orbital regimes such as geosynchronous orbit (GSO), poorly governed autonomous operations could increase the risk of miscalculation and escalation between space actors.
Bibliographic record
McKee, S. (2026). Novel Particle Probes in Nuclear Verification. In: Göttsche, M., Jakob, U., & Schörnig, N. (Eds.). Verification in an Era of Rapid Technological Change. CNTR Monitor – Technology and Arms Control 2026. PRIF – Peace Research Institute Frankfurt.
Author
Dr. Sarah McKee
