A team of four Brampton high school students is developing an artificial intelligence–powered satellite diagnostic system they believe could one day be used by NASA and space engineering companies around the world.
In November, students Justin Rui, Arjan Waraich, Daniel Ganjali and Emerson Ni — collectively known as Team JADE — won $5,000 for their project, Heimdall, at the 2025 BramHacks hackathon. The system is designed to predict satellite hardware failures and improve the reliability and lifespan of space missions.
The students say the win has motivated them to further develop Heimdall into a comprehensive satellite maintenance platform. Rui said the long-term goal is to see the technology adopted by major space agencies such as NASA and the Canadian Space Agency.
According to data cited by the team, there are about 10,000 active satellites currently orbiting Earth, along with roughly 20,000 defunct satellites and pieces of space debris. With an estimated one in eight satellites failing each year, Rui said Heimdall can detect early signs of hardware degradation with up to 85 per cent accuracy, potentially extending the operational life of satellites.
The project also includes a second phase featuring a custom 3D-printed robotic arm that models in-orbit repair tasks. Rui said the team hopes to use Heimdall as a strong proof of concept to present to space technology firms, including Brampton-based MDA Space.
All four students are just 16 and 17 years old, but Rui said they have already received expert feedback on the project’s feasibility and next steps, helping them explore future opportunities in the space sector.
Team JADE presented Heimdall to Brampton City Council on Nov. 26, where Regional Councillor Rowena Santos praised the students for their innovation and achievement.
Rui said the project was also meant to demonstrate what local youth can accomplish when given the right opportunities. Looking ahead, he hopes to work in space engineering after graduation — either with an established company or by launching a startup with his teammates.
“Working at one of these major companies would be amazing,” Rui said, adding that the ultimate ambition is to build their own company and collaborate with industry leaders such as NASA and SpaceX.