European Space Agency Mission “Comet Interceptor” Applies Comet Models Developed in Latvia

May 20, 2025

Through collaboration between Latvian technology company Nanocraft SIA, Ventspils University of Applied Sciences, and the Tartu Observatory, the photo-realistic modelling project “CI3D” has been successfully delivered to the European Space Agency (ESA). The project activities have produced computer-generated images used for testing the cameras of ESA’s “Comet Interceptor” mission. Since the mission, scheduled for the early 2030s, will approach a still-unknown target comet—its trajectory from the Oort cloud towards the Sun currently too distant to observe with telescopes—photo-realistic images are needed to validate the mission’s cameras.

Synthetic images of a comet nucleus and atmosphere created as part of the “CI3D” project. Source: Ventspils University of Applied Sciences / Gints Jasmonts and Nanocraft SIA / Mario F. Palos.

Just like in the production of the film Straume, the “CI3D” team uses the photorealistic 3D modelling tool Blender. Both internationally recognized projects share a common theme—the teams are capable of producing virtual worlds that expand our imagination. All space missions developed so far have been aimed at specific known targets—objects or phenomena in the Universe. Following the impressive achievements of Rosetta, ESA has taken on an entirely new space technology challenge—developing a mission involving multiple probes that will approach a target comet that may still be unknown even at the time of spacecraft launch. Thus, the “Comet Interceptor” mission demonstrates Europe’s leadership in cometary research.

“Comet Interceptor” mission operations plan. Source: European Space Agency.

New challenges make science and technology projects exciting. The Latvian–Estonian team has carved out a special niche since the late 2010s, when under the leadership of Professor Mihkel Pajusalu at the Tartu Observatory, Dr. Andris Slavinskis and colleagues began mastering the Blender tool. After a decade spent in Sweden, Switzerland, Estonia, the USA, and Finland, Slavinskis returned to Latvia with the idea to found a company focused specifically on space scene modelling. To tackle complex problems in comet atmosphere modelling, Slavinskis turned to scientists at his alma mater — Ventspils University of Applied Sciences—Professor Andris Vaivads and researcher Karina Šķirmante.

“Comet Interceptor” mission fly-by plan. Source: Jones et al. 2024. 

Successful space camera development requires comprehensive knowledge of the physical parameters that characterize the mission target. In the “Comet Interceptor” mission, we must model a range of physical parameters to represent various possible comet sizes, shapes, activity levels, as well as fly-by speed and geometry (the probe’s orientation relative to the comet and the direction of incoming sunlight). Additionally, as part of the delivered project, the “CI3D” team worked with three cameras—“OPIC”, “MIRMIS NIR”, and “EnVisS”—which are being developed in Estonia, Finland, and Italy, respectively. The “Comet Interceptor” mission comprises three probes: the main spacecraft “A”, which carries the “MIRMIS NIR” camera; probe “B2”, which carries “OPIC” and “EnVisS”; and probe “B1”. The Blender modelling tool allows virtual programming of physical and fly-by parameters.

 

With the successful delivery of the project, the “CI3D” team is preparing for future activities. During the project extension, the comet atmosphere model will be enhanced with a tail and jets, and background stars will be added to assist in determining the orientation of probe “B2”. The extension also includes plans to interview the remaining five “Comet Interceptor” camera teams whose instruments are installed on all three probes. Probe “B1” is being developed by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, offering the Latvian computer science team an opportunity to expand cooperation beyond Europe.

 

Contact: Andris Slavinskis, andris.slavinskis@nanocraft.space

Share on other platforms

Other news

Welcome to the Language Café: Science in Plain Language

By Rota Rulle • November 19, 2025
Ventspils University of Applied Sciences warmly invites doctoral students to take part in our upcoming Language Café – "Science in Plain Language", an event designed to help researchers express complex ideas in clear, accessible, and engaging ways. The event will take place online on Zoom platform, on November 28, 10:00 AM-12:00 PM CET (11:00 AM-1:00 PM Riga time). Work language: English Communicating science effectively is an essential skill in today’s diverse academic and professional environment. During this interactive session, linguist and plain-language expert, VUAS lecturer and guest researcher Aiga Veckalne will introduce the principles of plain language and share practical techniques for presenting research so that it can be understood by wider audiences. After the introduction, participants will be divided into mixed-cultural discussion groups to explore their own research topics and practice communicating them in clear, concise language. The session will conclude with short group presentations summarising the key insights. Doctoral students are encouraged to bring along their morning coffee, relax, and enjoy a welcoming and supportive atmosphere where learning is shared and curiosity is celebrated. We look forward to seeing you at the Language Café and to engaging in meaningful, inspiring conversations about science, clarity, and communication. To register, please fill out the survey here: https://forms.gle/XM9XVLjscCfKBfyD7 Zoom link will be sent to your email after registration.

Probe Developed by Electronics Engineering Students Carries a Kombucha Can to an Altitude of 30 km

By Rota Rulle • November 8, 2025
Electronics engineering students from Ventspils University of Applied Sciences (VUAS) developed a probe that carried a can of “Rudy’s Kombucha” into near space, reaching an impressive altitude of 28,690 meters – nearly 30 kilometers above the Earth’s surface. While trying to locate the probe afterward, the students encountered major GPS signal disturbances across the Kurzeme region, so they called on radio amateurs for assistance. Working together, they successfully located the probe near Dobele. The space mission probe was equipped with a GoPro camera that captured both the launch and the breathtaking flight. After the controlled explosion of the probe’s balloon at nearly 30 kilometers altitude, a parachute opened, ensuring the can’s safe return to Earth. The probe was launched from Ventspils airfield and, after flying approximately 140 kilometers, landed near Dobele. Jānis Šate, Director of the Electronics Engineering study program at Ventspils University of Applied Sciences, explained: “The company knew that our students develop probes, and they had the idea to attach a beverage can and launch it into space. Technically, it’s more accurate to say it was launched into the stratosphere. We discussed it in August, and within a few months, the electronics engineering students built the probe. It’s a group project in the third year of studies, and this collaboration added extra value. The most challenging part of launching the probe is creating the electronic system attached to the parachute and helium balloon. The balloon rises to about 30 kilometers, where air pressure drops, the balloon bursts, and the probe descends to Earth. Launching it is easy – the hard part is tracking and recovering it afterward. A GPS navigation system is required to continuously transmit the probe’s location. The students’ task was to design an electronic system that can operate in the stratosphere, where temperatures drop to –40°C.” “We coordinated the launch with the Civil Aviation Agency since air traffic is affected, and we also arranged it with Ventspils Airport. Eventually, the probe was found near Dobele, though there were unexpected complications – due to the global situation, GPS communications are regularly disrupted from Königsberg (Kaliningrad, Russia). Unfortunately, we launched on one of those days when signal interference over Kurzeme and the Baltic Sea was particularly strong. That meant that when the probe ascended above ten kilometers, our system showed it was no longer over Kuldīga, but over Kaliningrad. From there, spoofed GPS signals were being transmitted to mislead moving objects.

COLOURS Partners Explore Mental Health and Inclusion at Paderborn, Germany

By Rota Rulle • November 4, 2025
In October, VUAS COLOURS WP5, headed by Lasma Asme, joined other representatives from COLOURS partner universities gathered at Garage33, Paderborn University, Germany, for a dynamic CoLab dedicated to Mental Health, Body Image, and Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). The three-day event, which is part of the COLOURS CoSpace initiative, brought together students, researchers, and staff from across Europe to exchange perspectives and co-create innovative approaches under the smart specialisation area of Health and Well-being. Participants from a very diverse background, under the moderation of Dr Christine Hante-Koch and Dr Alena Diedrich, discussed how issues like body dissatisfaction, eating disorders, anxiety, and depression are closely connected and how promoting a positive body image can make a real difference for people’s health. Using design thinking processes, the group also worked on the importance of creating fair and inclusive support systems that meet the needs of different communities, including women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people facing disabilities, financial struggles, or migration challenges. The participants were divided into 4 groups and had cases ranging from how to deal with women who survived breast cancer, to isolated international students living in other countries, and how to make gamers more active while utilizing their special skills and enlarging their comfort zone. At the end of the event, each group pitched their ideas, solutions, and next steps. These solutions were evaluated and challenged by a panel of experts from multiple disciplines, with the example of Martin Persson, Professor of Health Sciences at Kristianstad University. The CoLab encouraged teamwork, creativity, and cultural exchange. The ideas developed in Paderborn will help shape future COLOURS activities and strengthen collaboration between partner universities committed to building healthier and more inclusive learning environments and society at large.

VUAS receives the “Best Practice University” certificate for high standards in the quality of international studies

By Rota Rulle • October 29, 2025
Ventspils University of Applied Sciences (VUAS) has been recognized as one of 16 higher education institutions in Latvia to receive the “Best Practice University” award from the Study in Latvia initiative. This certificate confirms that the university meets the criteria set by the Ministry of Education and Science, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Ministry of the Interior, ensuring responsible admission of international students and a high-quality study process. With this Agreement, the VUAS have undertaken to comply with the criteria and principles of the Agreement fostering good practice in attracting international students and ensuring the delivery of a high-quality study process. VUAS promises to observe good faith and ethical principles, providing only true information in marketing activities and advertising campaigns for international students.

Erasmus Days at VUAS: A Celebration of International Collaboration

By Rota Rulle • October 28, 2025
On October 22, Ventspils University of Applied Sciences (VUAS) joined the international celebration of “Erasmus Days”, bringing students and staff together for an afternoon filled with creativity, teamwork, and cultural exchange. The event was organized by two students of VUAS with the help of international office and “COLOURS”, featuring engaging activities and friendly competition across a series of interactive stations. Each station offered a unique challenge inspired by the theme of cultural diversity, encouraging participants to test their knowledge, communication skills, and creativity while earning points for their teams. Guided by enthusiastic station leaders and coordinated by the two main event organizers, the atmosphere was both energetic and welcoming. Students from different study programs and cultural backgrounds had the opportunity to connect, work together, and learn from one another in a relaxed and engaging environment. Throughout the event, participants enjoyed refreshments and snacks, as well as a live performance from the band “Sweet Sixteen.” The music, laughter, and friendly competition made for a memorable afternoon celebrating the spirit of “Erasmus +” openness, inclusion, and intercultural understanding. At the end of the activities, all teams received prizes in recognition of their efforts, with the winning team taking home exclusive VUAS merchandise. “Erasmus Days” once again highlighted the value of collaboration and student mobility, reminding everyone that learning extends far beyond the classroom, it thrives through shared experiences and cultural exchange and making new connections. Photos: Endijs Eihlers

Language Café Returns for Round Two

By Rota Rulle • October 24, 2025
After a fantastic first edition, our Language Café is back and better than ever! If you missed it the first time, this is your chance to join the friendliest crew of language lovers on the Ventspils University of Applied Sciences campus. Expect good vibes, new words, and plenty of laughter as we meet again at D0 (Lounge Room) on 29th October 2025 at 16:30. Whether you’re a returning participant or a first-timer, everyone is welcome! So dust off your sense of humour, clear your schedule, and widen your comfort zone. Bring a friend, roommate, coursemate, and of course, your favourite snack – and let’s make language learning fun again!
Other news