This initiative is part of the European Space Agency's (ESA) 'Systems Studies for a Circular Economy in Space' program. In collaboration with BAE Systems, Astroscale is working on an In-orbit Refurbishment and Upgrading Service (IRUS) to transition away from the current practice of single-use satellites. The findings from this preliminary study will help shape future commercial satellite servicing solutions.
The IRUS project builds upon Astroscale's existing technology to develop a servicing satellite capable of docking with a BAE Systems client satellite. Designed with modularity in mind, the client satellite will allow for robotic in-orbit upgrades, enhancing its functionality and extending its operational lifespan.
As part of this effort, DHV Technology, a specialist in custom solar array systems and spacecraft power subsystems, contributed to the study by examining the broader implications of refurbishment and upgrading on solar cell technology.
Between 2030 and 2040, thousands of new satellites are expected to be launched into low Earth orbit, underscoring the urgent need for sustainable solutions. Instead of deorbiting and replacing non-functional satellites, the ability to refurbish and upgrade them in space will be critical for a circular space economy.
Astroscale UK led one of four teams competing under ESA's 'Systems Studies for a Circular Economy in Space' initiative, aimed at fostering innovative system concepts for a sustainable space industry by 2050. Following the final review of the submissions, the IRUS team was selected to participate in an upcoming session at ESA's Concurrent Design Facility (CDF). Astroscale UK and BAE Systems will collaborate with ESA experts to refine the mission concept and seek further support during ESA's ministerial conference in November.
"With the increasing frequency of satellite launches, ensuring the sustainability of space activities is paramount," said Nick Shave, Managing Director of Astroscale UK. "A future satellite upgrading service will allow customers to either extend satellite lifespans by replacing outdated components or enhance their capabilities. Satellites play a crucial role in our daily lives, and keeping them operational longer is essential for a sustainable space economy. Our work with BAE Systems represents an important step in developing a service that will enable the safe and sustainable use of space for future generations."
Doug Liddle, Director of Space at BAE Systems' Digital Intelligence business, added, "We are dedicated to promoting long-term sustainability in space. Maximizing the functionality and flexibility of existing satellites reduces both space debris and the need for additional launches. Collaboration within the space community is essential to driving innovation, and our work with Astroscale exemplifies this approach. By designing satellites that can be upgraded in orbit, we are taking a significant step toward a circular space economy."
The study outlines a roadmap for making in-orbit refurbishment and upgrades a standard industry practice by 2040, with an IRUS In-Orbit Demonstration (IOD) mission planned for 2030 as an intermediate milestone.
IRUS will operate alongside Astroscale's End-of-Life service, which was successfully tested in 2021 with its ELSA-d spacecraft. The company plans to conduct another demonstration in 2026, during which its ELSA-M servicer will deorbit a Eutelsat OneWeb satellite that has reached the end of its operational life.
Research Report:Help ESA pave the way for a space circular economy
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