Astroscale U.S. Signed the Space Act Agreement with the Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) NASA to test the opportunities of rapprochement, operations in close proximity and docking (Rpod) of its space apparatus Refuler. These tests prepare Astroscale for two US Department of Defense satellite refueling operations (DoD) in geostationary orbit (GEO) For US space forces (USSF).
Center Goddard, known for supporting such iconic missions, such as maintenance of the Hubble Space Telescope and other NASA maintenance projects, assembly and production in space (ISAM), will provide a unique environment for high-precision tests. The agreement allows Astroscale U.S. test complex RPOD maneuvers with maximum fidelity, using GSFC's advanced robotic testing facilities. Refueler testing will end in August 2025 year.
RPOD maneuvers involve synchronizing the orbit and position with the client satellite, approaching it and docking, which is a technically challenging task. This collaboration with NASA will allow Astroscale U.S. to test the apparatus in the environment, as close as possible to real conditions, Based on the company's world experience in convergence and docking operations.
Refuler mission, scheduled for launching in summer 2026 year, will become the first in history operations to refuel with hydrazine in geostationary orbit and the first such mission for DOD assets. Space apparatus mass 300 Kg, equipped with a refueling tank for hydrazine, will carry out two refueling of USSF satellites, In particular, one of the two Tetra-5 apparatus, Using Rafti's interfaces from orbit fab. After the first refuelter will go away for a safe distance, will check the presence of leaks with the help, and then replenish your own fuel reserves on orbit orbit fab before the second refueling.
This mission, supported by a contract on $25,5 million from US space forces and additional $12 million from Astroscale, demonstrates the capabilities of commercial companies in creating orbital logistics. It paves the path to scaled infrastructure of the refueling, Increasing maneuverability and flexibility of satellites, that is crucial for military operations and sustainable space development.
Source: https://news.satnews.com