Spacecrafts need new low cost and weight sensor easy to integrate in a plug-in approach and capable to improve platforms versatility while reducing integration time and complexity. This is particularly true for the new generation of small and micro satellites to be launched in constellation and formation. Controlling small satellites cooperation and protecting the space assets from debris are two important issues of current and future missions.The cost reduction and safety of space missions is a key issue for further expand European leadership in particular in the Earth Observation and Communication sectors,The POLIFEMO (PanoramicMultifunctional Sensor for Small/Micro Satellite) is a unique solution for an integrated sensor capable to replace by one single unit the functions of Sun sensor, Earth sensor and Star tracker and additionally providing external situational awareness. 
POLIFEMO is based on a innovative lens with a very wide angle (with a hyper-hemispheric field of view) able to look at a field of view of 360° in azimuth (panoramic omnidirectional lens) and 270° in elevation (hyper-hemispheric capabilities). POLIFEMO, with that extremely high field of view and unique imaging detection capability, results in a small, low weight, low cost and reliable (no moving part, potentially failure point) space sensor. It is unique in the market of space sensors and suitable for many space and non space missions (e.g., communication, weather, imaging, surveillance, deep space but also UAV/HAP).
Progetti Speciali Italiani srl , a SME active in developing microsatellite and space applications, has set up, during the phase 1 project, a very experienced team of engineering  and commercial specialists for carrying on the proposed project .