Need precision for your RPO?

We can deliver

Precision, reliability, and adaptability are critical for your mission. Plextek are the experts in delivering Rendezvous and Proximity Operations (RPO) mmWave radar solutions for space.

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The challenge of space – where our RPO radars excel

RPO radars are crucial tools for detecting and navigating to large objects in space like active satellites and debris. Specifically built for space, these radars accurately measure distance, velocity, and trajectory. They play a critical role in safely engaging with other objects and providing reliable data, making them an essential addition to the sensor suite of space missions.

Achieve high accuracy, enhanced detection capabilities, imaging capability, zero-light operation, robust performance, and a flexible integration.

Need precision for your mission?

Engineering Excellence in Satellites and Space

For more than 30 years, we have helped industry leaders to systematically address strategic challenges, develop creative technical solutions and deliver advanced low-SWaP, Radar, RF communications, software, AI and ML, radar and sensing systems.

Engineering Excellence
  • Cutting-edge low-SWaP solutions
  • We excel in developing advanced RF technology needed for reliable, space-proven sensing and communication systems.
  • Space tech has unique challenges, but we are experienced in developing complex systems suitable for operation in challenging environments mitigating for outgassing, atomic oxygen, radiation events, solar loading & more.

Collaboration with ClearSpace

Collaboration with ClearSpace

Plextek partnered with ClearSpace, a company specializing in space debris removal, on a project to develop RPO radars that facilitate the precise rendezvous and capture of space debris. This collaboration leverages Plextek’s expertise in radar technology to support ClearSpace’s mission of ensuring the sustainability of space activities through active debris removal initiatives, as part of their CLEAR mission.

ClearSpace

“In this mission, we chose Plextek due to their proven technical expertise. Their radar systems are instrumental for achieving the paramount need for safety and precision in proximity operations.” Valentin Valhondo, Technical Program Manager, ClearSpace.

Why RPO Radars?

ENHANCED DETECTION
  • High Accuracy.
  • Excellent object detection capabilities – short wavelength ensures large RCS even from small objects
  • Accurate navigation, tracking & monitoring of other spacecraft and debris – combining range, Doppler and/or bearing information
  • Imaging capability – high-resolution system can discriminate different parts of larger spacecraft
ZERO-LIGHT OPERATION
  • Operates effectively in low-light conditions – active radar sensor does not require external illumination
  • Unlike camera-based sensors, our radar can operate seamlessly when pointed into the sun, in low/no light or eclipse
ROBUST PERFORMANCE
  • Solid-state design for improved reliability in challenging space environments
  • Aluminum antenna provides protection from heavy-particle radiation
  • Proven ability to withstand shock and vibration from launch
  • In-orbit upgradable – adjustment to transmitted waveforms and processing algorithms
FLEXIBLE INTEGRATION
  • Radar can be placed behind RF-transparent materials, including appropriately designed ceramics
  • Low-profile design allows operation even on small CubeSats
  • Adjustable power modes for reduced power consumption requirements

“Best Use of Innovation” Winner 2025

Plextek was awarded Best Use of Innovation at the Global Business Tech Awards 2025 for our pioneering radar technologies for space.

This award is testament to our ongoing commitment to the innovation of space technology, developing world-leading radar solutions that drive sustainability in orbit.

Partner with Plextek – Our Process

Technology Feasibility

Our multi-disciplinary engineering experience from developing hundreds of other systems in other industries means we’re well placed to help you to rapidly evaluate the potential and feasibility of a new technical design or system.

Proof of Concept

Plextek supports your project from early breadboard, flatsat and engineering model, through the extensive test and validation procedures needed before delivering final flight models.

Deployment

Once the preferred or optimal solution is clear we can develop complete products and systems – from the whiteboard to deployment – whilst ensuring integrity for the whole system.