// ORBITAL LOGISTICS AND PROPULSION TERM

In-Space Servicing

In-space servicing involves repairing, refueling, upgrading, or relocating satellites and other spacecraft while they are already in orbit.

In-Space Servicing — illustration from Wikipedia
Image via Wikipedia

TECHNICAL DEFINITION

In-Space Servicing (ISS) encompasses a range of robotic or human-assisted operations performed on orbiting spacecraft, including refueling, repair, inspection, upgrade, or relocation, to extend operational life or enhance capabilities.

BACKGROUND

Skyroot Aerospace Private Limited is an Indian private aerospace manufacturer and commercial launch service provider headquartered in Hyderabad, Telangana. The company was founded by two former ISRO scientists, Pawan Kumar Chandana, and Naga Bharath Daka.

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SYNONYMS & ALIASES

  • On-Orbit Servicing
  • Satellite Servicing
  • Orbital Repair
  • Spacecraft Maintenance

USAGE NOTE

In-space servicing is critical for extending the lifespan of expensive satellites and managing space debris.

DEVELOPERS

Organizations developing technology related to In-Space Servicing.

  • SpaceLogistics LLC

    A subsidiary of Northrop Grumman, SpaceLogistics provides satellite life extension, in-orbit repair, and other servicing capabilities for spacecraft in geosynchronous orbit using its Mission Extension Vehicles (MEV).

  • Astroscale

    Astroscale is a pioneer in developing technologies and services for orbital debris removal, satellite life extension, and in-orbit servicing to ensure sustainable use of space.

  • Orbit Fab

    Orbit Fab is developing a network of fuel depots and transfer vehicles to provide satellite refueling services in orbit, enabling extended mission lifetimes and enhanced operational flexibility.

  • ClearSpace

    ClearSpace is an ESA spin-off focused on developing missions and technology for active debris removal, aiming to clean up space and ensure the safety of operational satellites.

  • Momentus

    Momentus offers in-space infrastructure services, including satellite transportation to various orbits and future capabilities for in-orbit servicing and assembly, leveraging its Vigoride service vehicle.

  • MDA Ltd.

    MDA Ltd. is renowned for its advanced robotics, including the Canadarm series, which are critical for precision manipulation and assembly tasks required for in-space servicing missions.

  • D-Orbit

    D-Orbit provides in-orbit transportation services for satellites, deploying them to precise orbits, and is also developing technologies that support future in-space servicing capabilities.

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