D-Orbit signs deal with ESA for in-orbit servicing in geostationary orbit

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D-Orbit signs deal with ESA for in-orbit servicing in geostationary orbit
by Erica Marchand
Paris, France (SPX) Oct 16, 2024

D-Orbit, a leading company in space logistics, announced at the International Astronautical Congress (IAC) in Milan that it has secured a euro 119.6 million contract with the European Space Agency (ESA) as part of the Space Safety program.

The agreement aims to establish a commercial-grade infrastructure in Europe for in-orbit servicing. Under this contract, D-Orbit will develop, launch, and demonstrate a vehicle capable of performing tasks such as life extension, relocation, repair, disposal, and other functions by docking with and taking control of other spacecraft.

The project will feature the development of GEA, an advanced satellite platform designed to carry out in-orbit servicing in geostationary orbit (GEO). The initiative is backed by the Italian government through the Italian Space Agency (ASI), which recognizes the strategic value of in-orbit servicing for Italy's space industry. Contributions also come from other European agencies, including the UK Space Agency (UKSA), the German Aerospace Center (DLR), the Swiss Space Office (SSO), and the Agencia Espacial Espanola (AEE).

Luca Rossettini, CEO of D-Orbit, stated, "Our collaboration with ESA and the support from the Italian government and the Italian Space Agency, along with our European partners, positions us at the forefront of pioneering in-orbit servicing. We are eager to embark on this ambitious project, of which the first mission, called RISE, will mark a new, extraordinary milestone for D-Orbit: the beginning of regular commercial services in geostationary orbit. We are confident in its potential to redefine possibilities within the space industry."

Stefano Antonetti, VP of Business Development at D-Orbit, added, "This contract with ESA truly represents a defining moment in D-Orbit's journey and in the evolution of space logistics."

The collaboration involves multiple European partners with various expertise, demonstrating D-Orbit's commitment to enhancing space logistics and integrating in-orbit servicing as a vital component of its growth strategy.

This development further solidifies D-Orbit's leading role in space logistics and highlights the increasing relevance of in-orbit servicing within the global space industry.