// ORBITAL LOGISTICS AND PROPULSION TERM
LEOLEO Transfer
LEO-LEO Transfer describes the process of moving a satellite from one Low Earth Orbit (LEO) to another different LEO.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
LEO-LEO Transfer refers to the orbital maneuver of relocating a spacecraft from an initial Low Earth Orbit (LEO) to a different target LEO, typically involving propulsive burns to change altitude, inclination, or phasing.
SYNONYMS & ALIASES
- LEO transfer
- inter-LEO transfer
USAGE NOTE
LEO-LEO transfers are common for constellation deployment or repositioning satellites within a LEO network.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to LEOLEO Transfer.
Develops and operates Vigoride orbital transfer vehicles (OTVs) designed to move satellites between different low Earth orbits (LEO) or from LEO to other orbital regimes.
Provides electric propulsion systems and 'space tugs' (ExoTransfer) for in-orbit satellite transportation, enabling efficient LEO-LEO and LEO-MEO transfers.
Offers in-orbit transportation services with its ION Satellite Carrier, which precisely deploys multiple satellites into custom LEO orbital slots after a single launch, effectively performing LEO-LEO transfers for its hosted payloads.
Specializes in in-orbit servicing and space debris removal, which involves advanced rendezvous, proximity operations, and docking capabilities essential for LEO-LEO transfers, including repositioning or de-orbiting objects.
Developing in-orbit refueling infrastructure and services, which are critical for extending the operational life of LEO satellites and enabling more complex LEO-LEO maneuvers without depleting onboard propellant.
While primarily known for GEO-based Mission Extension Vehicles (MEV), their expertise in in-space servicing, rendezvous, and propulsion is highly relevant and adaptable to future LEO-LEO transfer and servicing operations.
Operates the Starlink constellation, which requires complex LEO-LEO maneuvers for satellite deployment and maintenance. Their Starship vehicle is also designed for in-orbit refueling, enabling extensive LEO-LEO and beyond-LEO transfers.
Developing orbital transfer vehicles (OTVs) like 'Mira' to provide last-mile delivery services for satellites, enabling precise orbital insertions and transfers within LEO and to higher orbits from LEO.