The project demonstrates a proof-of-concept of a next generation bio-inspired morphing wing inspired by academic research of the Peregrine Falcon morphology. Asymmetric span morphing has previously been demonstrated for UAV roll control via in-plane partial span change. This design has full bird-like span change and a unique out-of-plane modality. This offers novel drag reduction characteristics when made to form an airflow channel in conjunction with a fixed surface such as the fuselage, in “cupped wing” flight.

The BIOINSPACED project was initiated to find bio-inspired solutions for space debris removal because the identification, orbital alignment, capture and removal of uncooperative bodies in space is incredibly complex and no fully functioning method is available to date. Biology and its evolved mechanisms often provide specialized concepts that show great transferability to technical systems.