Overview

ATK (Aerospace Tool Kit) is an open-source (for academic use) aerospace mission design and simulation software developed independently by the School of Aerospace Science at the National University of Defense Technology (NUDT) in China. Version 4.0 was officially released on April 11, 2026, featuring fully self-controlled core code. It currently serves over 300 organizations and 53 universities, supporting major missions including Tiangong, Shenzhou, and Tianzhou.

Key Information

  • License: Commercial software (domestic)
  • Developer: School of Aerospace Science, NUDT
  • Latest Version: 4.0 (released April 2026)
  • Platform: Compatible with domestic operating systems and CPUs

Main Capabilities

  • Orbit Design & Simulation: Supports complex scenarios including LEO, cislunar, and deep space orbit design
  • Rendezvous & Docking Simulation: Planning for crewed space station and spacecraft rendezvous and docking missions
  • Collision Warning & Avoidance: Spacecraft collision risk assessment
  • Deviation Analysis: Mission deviation evaluation and sensitivity analysis
  • Advanced Constellation Design: Large-scale constellation deployment and optimization
  • Digital Earth Visualization: Plugin-based scene visualization with massive object loading, cross-scale display from the solar system to individual satellites

Application Scenarios

  • Launch and return simulation for launch vehicles, satellites, spacecraft, and space stations
  • Cislunar transfer orbit and L1/L2 point mission design
  • Spacecraft rendezvous and docking mission planning
  • Deep space mission simulation and orbit optimization

Key Advantages

  • Fully self-controlled core code, closely aligned with China's aerospace mission requirements
  • Highly compatible with domestic operating systems and CPUs
  • "What you see is what you get" interface: click and drag to sketch aerospace mission trajectory curves
  • General-purpose orbital maneuver planning: minutes to complete work that previously required significant human resources
  • 5 categories, 29 modules; breakthrough technologies in large-scale software architecture, high-precision efficient computing kernels, and cross-scale multi-coordinate system situational awareness

Official Resources