The Critical Link to Long-Term Space Sustainability
In-Orbit Refueling (IOR) has the potential to fundamentally change how spacecraft are designed, operated, and sustained in orbit. Instead of replacing spacecraft once onboard propellant is depleted, satellites could be serviced, refueled, repositioned, and extended operationally for years beyond their original mission life.
Today, however, the IOR ecosystem remains fragmented. Different companies are developing interfaces, servicing technologies, RPOD systems, and operational concepts independently. Without interoperability, each solution risks becoming an isolated end-to-end system.
The objective of the In-Orbit Refueling Working Group (IOR-WG) is to help enable a cooperative, multi-vendor ecosystem through interface definitions, interoperability discussions, and systems engineering collaboration.
This page summarizes key companies, technologies, standards, and projects shaping the emerging IOR ecosystem.
Why This Matters
- Extended satellite operational life
- Reduced spacecraft replacement costs
- Lower space debris generation
- Reusable orbital infrastructure
- Competitive multi-vendor servicing markets
- Faster response to changing mission requirements
Ecosystem Areas Covered
- IOR Service Providers
- Docking & Fluid Transfer Interfaces (DFT)
- RPOD Technologies
- Orbit Dynamics & Flight Mechanics
- Ground Segment Software
- Supporting Technologies
- Standards & Interoperability
- IOR / ISAM Test Facilities
- Government & Agency Projects
Participate
We welcome participation from companies, agencies, researchers, operators, and technology providers involved in In-Orbit Refueling, RPOD, Docking Interfaces, Fluid Transfer Systems, Ground Segment Systems, Propulsion, Robotics, Flight Dynamics, ISAM, and Space Sustainability.
