  The rapid advancement and miniaturization of spacecraft electronics, sensors,
actuators, and power systems have resulted in growing proliferation of
small-spacecraft. Coupled with this is the growing number of rocket launches,
with left-over debris marking their trail. The space debris problem has also
been compounded by test of several satellite killer missiles that have left
large remnant debris fields. In this paper, we assume a future in which the
Kessler Effect has taken hold and analyze the implications on the design of
small-satellites and CubeSats. We use a multiprong approach of surveying the
latest technologies, including the ability to sense space debris in orbit,
perform obstacle avoidance, have sufficient shielding to take on small impacts
and other techniques to mitigate the problem. Detecting and tracking space
debris threats on-orbit is expected to be an important approach and we will
analyze the latest vision algorithms to perform the detection, followed by
quick reaction control systems to perform the avoidance. Alternately there may
be scenarios where the debris is too small to track and avoid. In this case,
the spacecraft will need passive mitigation measures to survive the impact.
Based on these conditions, we develop a strawman design of a small spacecraft
to mitigate these challenges. Based upon this study, we identify if there is
sufficient present-day COTS technology to mitigate or shield satellites from
the problem. We conclude by outlining technology pathways that need to be
advanced now to best prepare ourselves for the worst-case eventuality of
Kessler Effect taking hold in the upper altitudes of Low Earth Orbit.
