Multi-resolution scanner experiments on board the International Space Station

The Multi-resolution Scanner (MRS) is a fused sensor payload designed to enhance situational awareness for space-based applications through autonomous navigation and mapping. The payload was developed through a multi-national collaboration to extend previous research undertaken on the International Space Station (ISS) to test autonomous navigation and mapping technologies to support autonomous robotic caretakers for uncrewed spacecraft. Launched to the ISS in March 2024, the payload began on-orbit experimentation in August 2024. This paper presents the design and operational aspects of the MRS, including an analysis of the results to date which show that high precision in both 3D mapping and 6-DoF navigation performance can be achieved in operational conditions. The paper also discusses the ongoing on-orbit experiments investigating use cases such as robotic localisation and scene change detection. Finally, we outline prospective future missions and applications for the MRS technology in broader space operations.