Insider Brief
- Astroscale U.S. is set to conduct two first-of-its-kind refuelling operations for a U.S. Department of Defense satellite in geostationary orbit by the summer of 2026.
- The mission will support the U.S. Space Force and showcase the potential of commercial space companies to provide essential on-orbit services.
- The mission is expected to demonstrate the viability of a full end-to-end refueling ecosystem, integrating client spacecraft, servicers, and depots in space.
Astroscale U.S. announced it is set to conduct two groundbreaking refueling operations for a U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) satellite in geostationary orbit (GEO) by the summer of 2026. The mission will be the first of its kind, supporting the U.S. Space Force (USSF) and showcasing the potential of commercial space companies to provide essential on-orbit services. This operation marks a significant milestone in the development of commercial space logistics, particularly for military applications.
The Astroscale U.S. Refueler, a 300-kilogram spacecraft, will be the first to perform hydrazine refueling operations above GEO. This refueling capability is crucial for maintaining satellite maneuverability, extending the operational life of DoD assets, and ensuring mission resilience. Astroscale’s mission will establish a scalable and flexible refueling infrastructure, demonstrating that in-space logistics can be accomplished sooner than expected.
Ron Lopez, President of Astroscale U.S., commented, “This mission proves that in-space logistics does not have to be years away. We’re a focused team with one goal: deliver and operate an operational prototype spacecraft for the Space Force.” The Astroscale U.S. Refueler will serve as a prototype for future on-orbit refueling operations, laying the groundwork for a broader ecosystem of space services, which includes refueling, transportation, and debris mitigation.
In addition to its hydrazine tank, the Refueler spacecraft will carry refueling interfaces developed in collaboration with Orbit Fab. The mission is expected to demonstrate the viability of a full end-to-end refueling ecosystem, integrating client spacecraft, servicers, and depots in space. This mission will also contribute to the Department of Defense’s efforts to enhance space resilience, supporting rapid innovation and dynamic operations in orbit.
Ian Thomas, Program Manager for the Astroscale U.S. Refueler, emphasized the importance of this mission: “This is infrastructure that expands options for the warfighter and demonstrates what rapid innovation looks like in action.”
This mission also represents the next phase in the Space Mobility and Logistics (SML) program, which seeks to advance space capabilities, such as refueling, transportation, and debris removal, to support both military and commercial space operations. Astroscale’s work with the U.S. Space Force will enhance the United States’ space operations, contributing to both military readiness and long-term sustainability in orbit.
Image credit: Astroscale U.S.
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