IOR Ecosystem Objective

The objective of this document is to bring together business, technology, companies, experience, economics, past projects, people, and standards related to the In-Orbit Refueling (IOR) system.

Key points:

• This is a live document and will be updated based on feedback and new information

• Information is not duplicated where possible, but consolidated under this effort

• The information is crowd-sourced (so please submit your contributions)

• The document is managed by the In-Orbit Refueling Working Group and sponsored by ReliqAI

• If you find information that is incorrect, incomplete, or missing, please let us know

Assumptions

Two assumptions are made for participants:

1. Targets are cooperative

2. Targets are serviceable, i.e., they can be targeted (with markers), docked with, and have propellant receiving capability, including defined physical interfaces

Business of IOR

A spacecraft’s life is limited by the propellant it carries at launch. Maneuvers such as orbit raising and orbit alignment consume this propellant. Before it is depleted, the spacecraft must either be refueled or deorbited.

While multiple factors influence the decision, the primary driver between refueling and replacement is economics.

The objective is to make the economics so clear and favorable that replacement is no longer the default option. Similar to how vehicles are routinely refueled or recharged.

In-Orbit Refueling vs Refueling a Car

There are millions of cars with fuel tanks that require refueling approximately every two weeks. In contrast, there are currently very few cooperative, refuel-ready spacecraft.

Key differences:

• There are far fewer satellites than cars

• Client satellites are not ready (i.e., they do not have the required physical interfaces for servicing)

• Propellant in deployed satellites lasts 5–10 years, leading to long revenue cycles for service providers

• IOR services are expensive. Key reason: service providers build full end-to-end custom solutions with limited cooperation and competition

Benefits of Interoperability in IOR

When these three levels of interfaces are defined and implemented, refueling can become as simple as a “plug and refuel” operation. This is essential for long-term viability.

Inter-Spacecraft Interfaces

• Physical (Docking/Transfer)

• Proximity Operations and Relative Navigation

Inter-Ground System Interfaces

• Service Provider <-> Client Operator Ground Systems

• Service Provider <-> Resupply Provider

Ground Systems to Spacecraft Interfaces

• Service Provider <-> Service Vehicle

• Client Operator <-> Client Spacecraft

Business benefits of an interoperable IOR ecosystem:

• Clients can procure refueling services from multiple vendors

• Competition reduces cost, delays, and improves service quality

• Refueling can be planned within shorter timelines (e.g., ~1 month)

• Service providers can serve multiple clients, improving efficiency and cost

Space In-Orbit Refueling Market – Financial projections

The global space in-orbit refueling market was valued at USD 1.45 billion in 2025 and is projected to grow to USD 1.65 billion in 2026, reaching USD 3.90 billion by 2034, with a CAGR of 11.3%. North America accounted for 48.4% of the market in 2025.

Source: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/space-in-orbit-refueling-market-108371

IOR Refueling Technologies

Many technologies enable In-Orbit Refueling (IOR). This section lists core technologies used to deliver IOR services and supporting technologies required to enable them.

In-Orbit Refueling Core Technologies

Orbit Dynamics & Flight Mechanics

Software and algorithms to enable the chaser to reach a serviceable location relative to the target, including transfer, phasing, and rendezvous trajectory planning.

Proximity Technologies

Enable the chaser to estimate position, distance, velocity, and relative attitude of the target spacecraft.

• Lidar – Enables chaser to measure distance and relative position to target

• Sensors – Vision/camera-based and other sensors for target detection and tracking

• RPOD Systems – Integrated solutions combining sensors and processing for rendezvous and proximity operations

Capture Mechanisms

Technologies used to physically secure the target spacecraft.

• Grapples, claws, or other mechanical capture systems

• Docking mechanisms / interfaces for controlled physical connection

Transfer Interfaces

Compatible physical and fluid interfaces to enable propellant transfer between servicer and client spacecraft.

Supporting Technologies

Supporting technologies are required for IOR and are also used for normal spacecraft operations.

• High-Precision Propulsion (chemical/electric) – Fine maneuvering and control

• RCS / Thruster Control Systems – Small translational and rotational maneuvers

• Propellant Transfer Systems – Pumps, valves, seals, and fluid couplings

• ADCS (Attitude Determination and Control System) – Maintain spacecraft orientation

• Star Trackers – Provide precise attitude determination using star reference

Companies in IOR Ecosystem

Companies in the IOR ecosystem fall into the following categories:

• IOR Service Providers

• IOR Technology Providers

• IOR Customers

Below is a list of companies focused on IOR. For completeness, some companies providing broader on-orbit services are also included.

IOR Service Providers

Orbit Fab

Based in Denver, Colorado, founded in 2018 and creator of the RAFTI refueling interface.

Orbit Fab’s refueling service consists of fuel shuttles that ferry fuel from storage depots to RAFTI-equipped spacecraft. Placement of shuttles and depots is optimized using their in-house UMPIRE software based on satellite cluster analysis.

Key Achievements: RAFTI refueling interface approved by Space Systems Command’s System Engineering Review Board (SERB)
Executed or Planned Missions: Not listed
TRL Readiness: Not known

Dawn Aerospace

Based in the Netherlands, New Zealand, France, and the United States, with fewer than 200 employees.

Dawn Aerospace has an interface similar to RAFTI.

Dawn’s aero architecture is similar to Orbit Fab’s, and the DFT seems similar as well:

• Space Utility Vehicle (SUV) – aka Orbit Fab’s Fuel Shuttle

• Orbital Propellant Depot (OPD) – aka Orbit Fab’s Storage Depot

These spacecraft are built on their refueling-ready foundation — nitrous oxide propulsion and SatDrive propulsion systems already deployed in orbit.

Key Achievements: As of May 4, 2026, propulsion systems have been launched on 51 satellites across LEO, GEO, and beyond (207 thrusters, 22 SatDrive systems, 12 CubeDrive systems)
Executed or Planned Missions: Not listed
TRL Readiness: Not known

D-Orbit

Based in Fino Mornasco, Como, Italy, founded in 2011, with approximately 450 employees.

Key Achievements: ESA awarded €119 million contract for the RISE in-orbit servicing mission
Executed or Planned Missions: RISE (planned)
TRL Readiness: Not known

Infinite Orbits

Based in Toulouse, France, founded in 2017, with approximately 130 employees.

Their autonomous vision-based navigation solution provides in-orbit inspection and SSA services. They plan to provide life-extension services for GEO satellites under the Endurance product line.

What life-extension services are provided is not clear. If life extension is by supply of propellant, clarity on use of DFT is not listed.

Key Achievements: Not listed
Executed or Planned Missions: Not known
TRL Readiness: Unknown

OrbitAID

Based in Chennai and Bengaluru, India, founded in 2021, with approximately 25 employees.

They own a DFT called Standardized Interface for Docking and Refueling Payload (SIDRP).

Key Achievements: Signed an MOU with ispace to collaborate on future lunar docking and refueling systems
Executed or Planned Missions: Not listed
TRL Readiness: Not known

On-Orbit Service Providers

Also included are on-orbit service providers who have interest, intention, or need to participate in In-Orbit Refueling.

Astroscale

Based in the UK and Japan with about 500 employees, founded in 2013.

Astroscale’s on-orbit servicing includes life extension, refurbishment, upgrades, in-situ space situational awareness, end-of-life services, and active debris removal. Their ELSA-d mission demonstrated magnetic capture of a client spacecraft, which is directly relevant to future refueling and servicing operations.

Astroscale expects its subsidy projects to turn profitable from FY2028 onward, following completion of a partially funded project in FY2027.

Key Achievements: ELSA-d on-orbit demonstration of rendezvous and magnetic capture
Executed or Planned Missions: ELSA-d (executed), ADRAS-J (planned/ongoing)
TRL Readiness: Advanced (RPOD and capture demonstrated in orbit)

Atmos Space Cargo

Based in Lichtenau, Germany, with about 80 employees, Atmos is developing reusable orbital transfer and return vehicles (PHOENIX), enabling future in-space logistics and servicing infrastructure relevant to the IOR ecosystem.

Key Achievements: April 2026 – Raised €25.7 million Series A
Executed or Planned Missions: PHOENIX 1 demo flight (April 2025); PHOENIX 2 planned
TRL Readiness: Advanced (re-entry and vehicle demonstrated; RPOD/capture not yet demonstrated)

Exotrail

Formed in 2017, headquartered in Massy, Île-de-France, and has secured over €75M in funding.

Their in-space operations and services are largely forward-looking. Current focus is on propulsion (ExoMG thrusters) and mission design (SpaceStudio). Future services include satellite inspection, end-of-life management, support for large space infrastructure, and enabling customers to better utilize space assets safely and sustainably.

Key Achievements: Deployment of ExoMG electric propulsion systems on orbit
Executed or Planned Missions: In-space servicing missions not listed
TRL Readiness: High for propulsion, early for servicing

Impulse Space

Based in Redondo Beach, California, founded in 2021, Impulse Space provides in-space transportation services using its own spacecraft for orbital transfer and maneuvering.

• Mira – Spacecraft designed for in-orbit maneuvering, payload hosting, and orbital transfer

• Helios – Orbital transfer vehicle designed to move payloads from LEO to higher-energy orbits

Key Achievements: Mira spacecraft has been launched and operated in orbit
Executed or Planned Missions: LEO Express missions (executed/planned)
TRL Readiness: Mira (flight demonstrated 2023 and 2025); Helios (in development)

MDA Space

Midnight’s first mission will demonstrate capabilities to inspect and report satellite status on-orbit; detect, attribute, and mitigate electronic countermeasures; capture and release cooperative satellites; and de-orbit a non-operational asset.

Satellite refueling and on-orbit asset relocation are also identified as future capabilities.

MDA’s heritage includes Canadarm robotics, which is directly relevant to on-orbit servicing and potential refueling support.

What DFT interface MDA Space uses is not clear.

Key Achievements: Canadarm heritage and robotics leadership; Midnight servicing mission development
Executed or Planned Missions: Midnight (planned)
TRL Readiness: High for robotics, evolving for servicing

Northrop Grumman (Space Logistics)

SpaceLogistics, a wholly owned subsidiary of Northrop Grumman, provides cooperative space logistics and in-orbit satellite servicing to GEO satellite operators using its commercial servicing vehicles: the Mission Extension Vehicle (MEV), Mission Robotic Vehicle (MRV), and Mission Extension Pods (MEP).

The Mission Extension Vehicle (MEV) services GEO satellites by docking with client spacecraft and providing propulsion and attitude control to extend mission life. Upon completion of service, the MEV undocks and relocates.

Executed Missions:

• MEV-1 successfully docked with Intelsat IS-901 on February 25, 2020

• MEV-2 launched on August 15, 2020 with the Galaxy 30 satellite

TRL: High

Orbital Paradigm

Based in Spain, founded in 2023 has about 35 employees.

Provides in-space transportation and return capability using reusable orbital vehicles.

Key Achievements: KID re-entry demonstrator
Executed or Planned Missions: KID (executed), Kestrel (planned)
TRL Readiness: Early flight demonstration stage

Quantum Space

Based in Maryland, United States, founded unknown, Quantum Space has about 75 employees.

Quantum Space is developing Ranger, a mission-configurable spacecraft designed for maneuvering and logistics in orbit. The platform includes propulsion systems, modular architecture, and is described as supporting operations such as repositioning and refueling of space assets.

Key Achievements: Development of Ranger maneuver-first spacecraft with integrated logistics and refueling capability
Executed or Planned Missions: Not publicly listed
TRL Readiness: Not known

Sierra Space

Headquartered in Colorado with about 1500 employees.

Participates in the on-orbit services ecosystem primarily through space transportation, orbital infrastructure (e.g., space stations), and spacecraft systems, rather than direct satellite servicing or refueling. Their Dream Chaser spaceplane and orbital infrastructure efforts position them for future logistics and potential refueling roles.

Key Achievements: Development of Dream Chaser spaceplane for cargo missions
Executed or Planned Missions: Dream Chaser (planned/near-term missions)
TRL Readiness: High for transportation systems

DFT Technology Providers

Docking and Fluid Transfer (DFT) Interfaces

Physical interfaces form the bottom layer where interoperability starts. The supplier and receiver must have compatible physical interfaces. Hence, it is imperative that space companies agree on one standard. Without this agreement, interoperability at other layers — propellant transfer, RPOD, and communications — has limited value.

At this time, four docking and transfer interfaces are known and are outlined below:

Dawn Aerospace

Specifications: https://www.dawnaerospace.com/dft-port

Executed or Planned Missions: #Customers: 4. First satellite systems with refueling capability planned for 2026. Demo Mission #1: In-orbit fuel transfer in 2028
TRL Readiness: TRL9 (propulsion systems). IOR/DFT: Unknown

Orbit Fab’s RAFI Port

Specifications: https://www.orbitfab.com/wp-content/uploads/DOC-00133A_RAFTI_Low_Pressure_Datasheet.pdf

Executed or Plans Missions:

• Demonstration mission to deliver hydrazine to U.S. government spacecraft (DIU), launch April 2027.

• Refueling capability demonstrator supporting on-orbit shuttle operations (Astroscale US / SSC), launch April 2027.

• Refueling payload mission for U.S. government spacecraft (AFRL), launch February 2028.

TRL Readiness: TRL8. (TRL9 after After 2027)

Northrop Grumman’s PRM Interface

Northrop Grumman’s Space Logistics subsidiary is the only commercial entity to have successfully serviced satellites in GEO, docking twice with Intelsat satellites to extend spacecraft life (Mission Extension Vehicle – MEV).

No Image is available

Specifications: Unknown
Executed or Planned Missions: MEV-1 and MEV-2 (executed)
TRL Readiness: High (based on successful on-orbit docking missions)

Orbit Aid

Specifications: Unknown
Executed or Plans Missions: Not known
TRL Readiness: claimed TRL-9

An Indian company claims to have TRL 9 ready interface:

Companies working on DFT Interface

Astroscale

Astroscale appears to be working on a physical interface for servicing and potential propellant transfer. Their work on capture mechanisms and servicing interfaces (e.g., magnetic docking plates used in ELSA-d) indicates movement toward standardized interfaces.

Specifications: Unknown
Executed or Planned Missions: ELSA-d (executed), ADRAS-J (planned/ongoing)
TRL Readiness: Partial (capture interface demonstrated; refueling interface not confirmed)

Lockheed Martin

Lockheed Martin appears to be working on physical interfaces for servicing and refueling under broader satellite servicing and exploration programs (including NASA collaborations and on-orbit servicing concepts).

Specifications: Unknown
Executed or Planned Missions: OSAM-related developments (NASA collaboration)
TRL Readiness: Not publicly defined for DFT; high maturity in related servicing technologies

RPOD Technologies

Blackswan

Based in Vilniaus, Blackswan Space develops COTS RPOD kits to autonomously perform navigation maneuvers, leveraging vision-based target identification and tracking. The system is tailored to enable any rendezvous, proximity operations and docking (RPOD) missions, including visual inspection, in-orbit servicing, space domain awareness.

In January 2026 Blackswan Space Secured €600k ESA Contract to Advance Vision-Based Navigation.

RPOD Kit

Specifications: Brochure
Executed or Plans Missions: None
TRL Readiness: Low (Early development)

Obruta Space Solutions

Based in Ottawa, Obruta Space Solutions (OSS) develops RPOD kits as a turnkey solution to equip spacecraft for safe, reliable, and autonomous docking.

RPOD Kit

Specifications: Unknown
Executed or Plans Missions: Not known
TRL Readiness: Unknown

Seems Obruta’s RPOD kits are ready for deployment.

Jena-Optronik

Jena-Optronik a subsidiary of Airbus Defense and Space and is based in Germany with about 250 employees.

LiDAR

Jena-Optronik’s LiDAR RVS is used for relative navigation in automated rendezvous, proximity operations, and docking between spacecraft. The system has been used in missions to the International Space Station (ISS), including ESA and JAXA resupply missions and Northrop Grumman’s Cygnus spacecraft.

The technology supports RPOD functions required for on-orbit servicing and life-extension missions. Development and deployment have involved collaboration with agencies including DLR, ESA, NASA, and JAXA.

Specifications: RVS 3000 LiDAR Product Family
Executed or Planned Missions: ISS servicing missions (multiple, executed); in-orbit servicing and life-extension missions (executed); refueling missions (planned); human spaceflight missions (planned)
TRL Readiness: High (flight-proven)

Star Sensors and Cameras

Star sensors are used for attitude and orbit control in space. While not core RPOD technology, they are a key enabling technology supporting RPOD operations.

Ten One Aerospace

Based in Washington, DC, USA, founded in 2020, with approximately 40 employees.

Ten One Aerospace is focused on RPO, providing COTS RPOD hardware and an RPOD flight software suite to manage autonomous RPO operations. Their solutions target safe, autonomous approach, docking, and interaction for applications including servicing, debris removal, and refueling.

Key Achievements: Complete RPOD hardware and software solution
Executed or Planned Missions: Not publicly listed
TRL Readiness: Not publicly defined (early to mid-stage for integrated RPOD systems)

Orbit Dynamics & Flight Mechanics

Ansys

• STK (Systems Tool Kit) – Mission analysis, orbit propagation, RPOD, and visualization for space operations

• ODTK (Orbit Determination Tool Kit) – Precision orbit determination and navigation analysis

• Astrogator – High-fidelity trajectory design and maneuver optimization within STK

Executed or Planned Missions: Used across multiple commercial and government space programs
TRL Readiness: High (industry-standard tools)

AI Solutions

• FreeFlyer – Astrodynamics, maneuver planning, and end-to-end mission operations software

Executed or Planned Missions: Widely used in mission design and operations
TRL Readiness: High

GMV

• FOCOS Flight Dynamics System – Orbit determination, prediction, and maneuver planning

Executed or Planned Missions: Operational use in satellite missions
TRL Readiness: High

CS GROUP

• OreFLIDS – Flight dynamics system built on Orekit for mission analysis and operations

Executed or Planned Missions: Used in operational environments
TRL Readiness: High

Exotrail

• SpaceStudio (mission design platform) – Mission design, orbit propagation, and maneuver optimization

Executed or Planned Missions: Used for mission design and planning
TRL Readiness: High (software platform)

COMSPOC

• COMSPOC Platform – Orbital analytics, conjunction assessment, and space domain awareness

Executed or Planned Missions: Operational SSA and analytics services
TRL Readiness: High

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions

• Kratos EPOCH / SpectralNet – Satellite command, control, and orbit operations software

Executed or Planned Missions: Used in commercial and defense satellite operations
TRL Readiness: High

Aurora Propulsion Technologies

• Mission Planning & Collision Avoidance Software – Maneuver planning and collision avoidance solutions

Executed or Planned Missions: Integrated with propulsion and mission systems
TRL Readiness: High

Ground Segment Software

Ground segment software is a required supporting infrastructure for any space mission. Existing ground systems will need to be upgraded with software modules provided by the IOR-WG.

CS GROUP

CS GROUP provides GOSMIC (https://gosmic.eu/), an operational, cloud-native ground segment platform designed for constellation management. GOSMIC integrates key components including:

• CSNano Control Center (command and control)

• ORELFIDS Flight Dynamics System (orbit determination and mission analysis)

• MAPS Mission Center (mission planning and operations)

The platform is aligned with recognized industry standards, including CCSDS, ECSS, and STAC, enabling scalable and interoperable ground segment operations.

Leaf Space

Based in Strasbourg, France and founded in 2020, Leanspace has about 35 employees. Leanspace provides a software platform for satellite and ground segment operations as a service.

Executed or Planned Missions: Not listed
TRL Readiness: Not known

Quindar

Based in Arvada, Colorado, USA, and founded in 2022, Quindar has approximately 50 employees.

Quindar provides cloud-native mission operations tools enabling automated command, telemetry, and multi-spacecraft operations, including support for servicing missions.

Key Achievements: Selected to participate in the U.S. Space Force’s Space-Based Interceptor program under the Golden Dome for America initiative
Executed or Planned Missions: Not listed
TRL Readiness: Not known

Terma

Based in Denmark, Terma provides the Terma Ground Segment Suite (TGSS), a mission control and constellation operations system supporting command and control, mission planning, and flight dynamics.

TGSS enables operators to generate and execute mission plans, manage contact schedules, and maintain end-to-end control of single satellites and constellations. TGSS includes a set of products:

• Mission Control System

• Flight Dynamics System

• Mission Visualization

• Mission Planning System

Executed or Planned Missions: Used in operational missions
TRL Readiness: High (Used in over 100 space missions).

On-Orbit Satellite and Mission Platform

Loft Orbital

Based in San Francisco, USA, founded in 2017 has about 350 employees.

Loft Orbital provides standardized satellite platforms and a software layer (“Hub”) that enables rapid payload integration and mission operations. Their architecture allows multiple customers to operate payloads on shared spacecraft through a common interface.

Key Achievements: Standardized payload integration architecture (“Hub”) and multiple hosted payload missions (YAM series)
Executed or Planned Missions: YAM missions (executed)
TRL Readiness: High for satellite platform and mission operations systems

Surrey Satellite Technology Limited (SSTL)

Based in the UK, founded in 1985, with approximately 450 employees SSTL has direct heritage in on-orbit servicing and debris removal missions through its involvement in RemoveDEBRIS and Astroscale’s ELSA-d mission. SSTL designed and manufactured the RemoveDEBRIS spacecraft platform, which demonstrated net capture, harpoon capture, vision-based navigation, and drag sail deorbit technologies in orbit. SSTL also supplied the Client spacecraft and avionics for Astroscale’s ELSA-d RPOD and capture mission.

Key Achievements:

• RemoveDEBRIS platform manufacturer and mission operator

• Supported first in-orbit demonstrations of multiple ADR technologies

• Supplied target spacecraft for Astroscale’s ELSA-d servicing mission

Executed or Planned Missions:

• Executed: RemoveDEBRIS, ELSA-d Client spacecraft support ()

• On Going: LEOPARD Active Debris Removal study ()

TRL Readiness: High (RPOD-supporting spacecraft)

Supporting Technology Companies

These companies provides technologies which support in creation of the IOR system

deltaVision

Based in Bavaria, Germany, with about 90 employees. Supported by NATO DIANA Accelerator. deltaVision is a cryogenic fluid control hardware company — not an end-to-end in-orbit refueling operator. It is not clear if they have their own DFT interface.

Valves and Regulators
Pressure Regulator Family

Specifications: Not listed
Executed or Planned Missions: Not known
TRL Readiness: Not known

Valves and Regulator

Kurs Orbital

Formed in 2022, with about 15 people, based in Turin, Piedmont, Italy and are a technology provider

Kurs Orbital’s ARCap module enables fully autonomous rendezvous, supporting satellite life extension, docking with space stations, and debris removal missions.

Although formed in 2022, the ARCap module is based on heritage from the KURS system, which has supported over 300 dockings since 1985.

Specifications: Not listed
Executed or Planned Missions: Demo mission planned for 2028 (delayed from 2027 for external factors)
TRL Readiness: High (based on KURS heritage)

Leo Labs

Formed in 2015, based in Menlo Park, California, with about 150 employees.

LeoLabs provides space domain awareness and orbital intelligence through a global radar network, including tracking, cataloging, and characterizing objects in orbit, along with conjunction assessment and maneuver detection.

Specifications: Not applicable
Executed or Planned Missions: Operational services in use
TRL Readiness: High

OHB SE

OHB SE is based in Bremen, Germany, with approximately 1,400 employees. It is a space and technology group and a leading independent company in the European space industry, with capabilities across Space Systems, Aerospace, and Digital.

OHB System has developed a ground demonstrator for a Xenon refueling system for the ESA European System Providing Refueling, Infrastructure and Telecommunications (ESPRIT) module on the Lunar Gateway, including active propellant transfer capability. The system incorporates a Xenon Refueling Compressor (XRC) enabling propellant transfer between tanks across a wide pressure range.

Executed or Planned Missions: No on-orbit refueling mission executed. ESPRIT is in development.
TRL: 5 (Xenon refueling compressor demonstrated in relevant environment)

ZAITRA

Based in Brno, Czech Republic, founded in 2020.

Provides onboard AI and data processing systems for in-orbit data handling and autonomous operations.

Key Achievements: Onboard data processing systems deployed on satellite missions
Executed or Planned Missions: Not listed
TRL Readiness: Flight demonstrated

In-Orbit Refueling Projects

(only projects initiated after 2020 are listed)

SPACE SYSTEMS COMMAND – DEPT OF DEFENSE (USA)

RFI: GEO Refueling Vehicles for Sustained Space Maneuver

March 2, 2026 Space Systems Command published this RFI.

Canadian Space Agency

CSA has no known ongoing projects related to IOR.

European Space Agency

IOR is critical for ESA, and ESA has invested in the following two projects:

ESA’s In-Space Proof-of-Concepts (InSPoC) programme is divided into four calls:

1. In-orbit rendezvous and docking (InSPoC-1) – Awarded

2. In-orbit refuelling and propellant management (InSPoC-2), – Awarded

3. Onboard and shared intelligence (InSPoC-3) – Awarded

4. Containerization and cargo transfer (InSPoC-4) – In Progress

In-Orbit Fuel Storage and Refilling Tech

October 2024

InSPoC-2: The European Space Agency selected ArianeGroup, GMV Aerospace and Defence, MT Aerospace, SAB Aerospace, and The Exploration Company to develop in-orbit fuel storage and refilling capabilities. [Details]

InSPoC-3: ESA selected OHB Digital Connect, GMV Aerospace, and Defence, Zaitra, Huld, and Orbital Paradigm

In-Orbit Refuelling Demonstration Mission

On February 6, 2026, the In-Orbit Test of Prototype Refuelling Technologies for Green Propellants initiative was launched, jointly managed by ESA’s Space Transportation and Connectivity and Secure Communications directorates. The initiative aims to extend a satellite’s in-orbit lifespan by more than 100%. [Details]

UK Space Agency

UK Space Agency has no known ongoing projects related to IOR.

IOR/ISAM Test Facilities

Satellite Applications Catapult

The Catapult is a UK organization that provides ISAM facilities supporting development and validation of in-orbit servicing, assembly, and manufacturing concepts. It offers test capabilities such as robotics-based simulation, gravity offload, and contact dynamics for verifying on-orbit operations. These facilities are relevant for IOR by enabling testing of servicing, interaction, and operational scenarios before deployment.

Space Dynamics Laboratory

Based at Utah State University, Space Dynamics Laboratory provides RPOD mission emulation and test facilities. More Information

Lockheed Martin Space Operations Simulation Center

The Space Operations Simulation Center (SOSC) is one of the largest spacecraft test facilities of its kind. It simulates on-orbit conditions for rendezvous, proximity operations, and docking (RPOD) missions.

SOSC Brochure

Standard Bodies and Relevant Standards

AIAA (American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics)

AIAA advances aerospace technologies through technical leadership, standards development, and knowledge dissemination. It plays a role in shaping emerging technical standards and publishes aerospace journals, books, and archival resources dating back to the early 1900s.

AIAA contributes to the development of technical frameworks and standards relevant to emerging space operations, including on-orbit servicing.

CONFERS

An industry-led initiative that identifies and leverages best practices from government and industry for Rendezvous and Proximity Operations (RPO), On-Orbit Satellite Servicing (OOS), and In-Space Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing (ISAM).

Produces non-binding, consensus-derived recommendations for technical and operational voluntary consensus standards (VCSs) for RPO, OOS, and ISAM.

INORBIT REFUELING WORKING GROUP (IOR-WG)

IOR-WG’s work enables multi-vendor interoperability for in-orbit refueling, allowing independent vendors to build compatible components that operate together as an ecosystem rather than as isolated end-to-end solutions.

Produces interface documents (IRD, ICD), IV&V frameworks, and compliance test plans.

International Deep Space Interoperability Standards

IRSIS provides standards developed collaboratively to define interfaces and environments for cooperative deep space exploration. These standards focus on prioritized areas in early exploration phases and are not intended to dictate design features beyond the interfaces.