21 July 2026 year Fr. 21:15 (UTC) from Cape Canaveral, Florida, USA, using a launch vehicle «Falcon 9 Block 5» the US robotic service spacecraft was launched «MRV-1» and three service modules «MEP».
Mission «MRV-1» – is one of the most important commercial programs for the development of servicing of satellites directly in orbit. This is the first launch of the company's new generation of space service vehicles SpaceLogistics, which will be able to extend the service life of geostationary satellites without the need for their replacement. Unlike previous Mission Extension Vehicle missions (MEV-1 to MEV-2), that only docked with satellites to ensure their orientation and orbit correction, MRV is a complete robotic platform with manipulators, capable of performing complex operations in geostationary orbit.
«MRV-1» (Mission Robotic Vehicle-1) – is a new generation of space service vehicles, weight approx 3000 kg and the estimated resource of work over 10 years. The device is equipped with robotic manipulators, which allow: autonomously approach satellites, grab (MEP), install MEPs on customer satellites, to carry out an inspection of space vehicles, perform auxiliary docking and service operations.
«MEP» – (Mission Extension Pods) – these are small service modules (mass close 400 Kg), which, after being installed on the satellite, actually become its new propulsion system. They provide: maintaining the orbit, position correction, compensation for spent fuel of the main satellite, orbital maneuvers, continued operation of the satellite without its replacement. After installation, the module takes over the functions of the satellite's engines. Distribution of MEP in the mission: 2 MEPs are designed to service Intelsat satellites, 1 The MEP is designed to serve the Optus satellite.
The MRV-1 mission is an important stage in the development of On-Orbit Servicing technologies (OOS) та In-Space Servicing, Assembly and Manufacturing (ISAM). It demonstrates the transition from one-time use of satellites to a model of their regular maintenance directly in space. In the future, such systems may perform more than just resource extension, repair, refueling, modernization and even assembly of large space structures in orbit.
According to the CCS