Northrop Grumman Revives Aging Satellite in Space

Extending Spacecraft Lifespans: Northrop Grumman's MEV-2 Mission

Northrop Grumman has achieved a significant advancement in prolonging the operational life of existing spacecraft. Their dedicated spacecraft, designated MEV-2, successfully docked with Intelsat’s IS-10-02 satellite. This maneuver is projected to grant the satellite an additional five years of service.

A Growing Field of Orbital Servicing

This successful docking serves as a compelling demonstration of the potential within the expanding field of orbital servicing operations. The ability to maintain and repair satellites in orbit represents a paradigm shift in space technology.

MEV-2 was launched in August and meticulously adjusted its orbit to match that of Intelsat’s IS-10-02. This satellite had already surpassed its initial mission duration by five years and was nearing the end of its useful life.

The OSAM Industry and Cost Savings

However, it is precisely these scenarios that the emerging “on-orbit service, assembly and manufacturing” (OSAM) industry is designed to address. Extending the lifespan of satellites through in-space servicing can potentially save operators substantial sums of money.

MEV-2: A Spaceborne "Jetpack"

During the operation, MEV-2 carefully approached and connected to IS-10-02, effectively functioning as a supplemental propulsion system with a full fuel supply. The two spacecraft will remain linked for five years.

Following this period, MEV-2 will transition to its subsequent mission – likely another satellite nearing the end of its operational lifespan. A Northrop Grumman spokesperson likened MEV-2 to “a jetpack for the 10-02 satellite.”

Docking vs. Clamping

The connection process is better described as a clamping mechanism rather than a traditional docking procedure. While a mechanical interface exists between MEV-2’s probe and IS-10-02’s engine cone, there is no exchange of fluids or power.

The representative clarified that the connection is purely mechanical.

Building on Past Success: MEV-1

Last year, the MEV-1 mission successfully completed a similar operation, docking with Intelsat’s IS-901 satellite and altering its orbit.

However, in that instance, the IS-901 satellite was inactive and not positioned for a return to service. This allowed for greater flexibility in the initial phases of the MEV-1 mission.

Servicing Active Satellites: A Major Advancement

In contrast, IS-10-02 was actively functioning in its designated orbit. Therefore, the MEV-2 spacecraft had to execute a coordinated approach that posed no risk to the satellite’s ongoing operations.

The ability to service satellites while they are still operational represents a significant leap forward compared to solely working with decommissioned spacecraft.

Future Goals: Refueling and Repair

The ultimate objective is to develop spacecraft capable of docking and refueling satellites without prolonged attachment, or to repair malfunctioning components. This would allow satellites that are largely functional to remain in orbit instead of being lost to atmospheric reentry.

Companies like Orbit Fab are focused on creating and standardizing the necessary components and ports to facilitate this capability. Northrop Grumman is also planning a robotic servicing mission, anticipated to launch in 2024.