The concept of refueling, repairing, or upgrading satellites and other spacecraft while they are in orbit has long been considered a promising idea, but representatives from Maxar, Astroscale, and Orbit Fab indicated at TC Sessions: Space that 2021 marks the turning point where this concept will transition into a tangible reality—or, at the very least, a feasible possibility.

Satellites, once launched, are typically viewed as depreciating assets that will eventually become outdated or exhaust their fuel supply, leading to their eventual deorbiting. However, with careful planning, many of these incredibly costly spacecraft could have their operational lifespan significantly extended through various methods. Given the substantial expenses associated with launching new satellites, this prospect is particularly appealing.

“While launch expenses are decreasing, the frequency with which things are being sent into space is simultaneously increasing,” noted Lucy Condakchian, General Manager of robotics at Maxar Technologies. “Therefore, if we can launch smaller subsystem payloads and then assemble components in space, or even replace specific parts of a satellite’s functionality… why not travel to orbit and replace a power subsystem, a camera mechanism, or a computing element, for example?”

Maxar and NASA will demonstrate this capability next year with OSAM-1, previously known as Restore-L, a mission designed to service, assemble, and manufacture items while in orbit.

“Successfully demonstrating this process in space confirms our ability to do so, validates the idea that ‘it is possible,’ and ideally unlocks further opportunities in the future,” stated Condakchian. The company’s robotic arms, already proven on Martian landers, have demonstrated their adaptability, suggesting similar arms could be equally valuable for satellite maintenance.

While Maxar focuses on equipping future spacecraft, Ron Lopez, President of Astroscale US (the parent company is based in Japan), identifies an opportunity within the existing space infrastructure.

“Numerous companies are developing on-orbit inspection services, catering to satellites already in orbit that lack robotic capabilities or whose owners may not wish to invest in them,” he explained.

“There are a multitude of potential applications for this capability,” he continued. “This includes insurance assessments in the event of a satellite anomaly, or space situational awareness. As the number of objects in space increases, understanding their location, function, and potential threat to other objects is critically important.”

Astroscale, having recently secured $51 million in Series E funding, is preparing to launch a mission within months to demonstrate orbital debris detection and removal. This doesn’t involve retrieving small items like dropped screws, but rather defunct satellites that may drift for years before naturally deorbiting. A small nudge can make low-Earth orbit safer and cleaner.

Daniel Faber, CEO and founder of Orbit Fab, aims to prevent the creation of such debris in the first place by establishing what he terms “gas stations in space.” This concept is akin to in-flight refueling for aircraft.

“Orbit Fab envisions a collaborative and thriving in-space economy, and we believe this cannot be achieved by relying solely on robotics for every spacecraft. There will always be a need for tow trucks and complex robotic servicing when equipment malfunctions. Currently, nothing is designed to be serviced, necessitating a tow truck for these situations,” he said.

“We initially attempted to build a satellite gas tanker, but we discovered there was no standard fueling port. So, we created one,” he explained, referring to the company’s RAFTI connector, which is currently being considered for integration into spacecraft by dozens of partners. “We’ve also had to develop other products and technologies to make refueling accessible to our customers.”

The tanker will undergo its initial orbital tests—as you might expect—next year. A recent investment, bringing their total seed funding to $6 million, will support these efforts. 2021 appears to be a pivotal year for this sector of the space industry, potentially leading to significant expansion in the following year as the capability is proven.

This represented only a portion of the discussion during the panel. Those who missed the live event can access all on-stage content from TC Sessions: Space and other events with an Extra Crunch subscription. Sign up here.