SpaceLogistics

Space logistics experts broadly endorse standards
A panel of space logistics experts underscored the importance of open standards to encourage the growth of the market.

Northrop Grumman says customers are ‘lined up’ for on-orbit satellite servicing
SpaceLogistics, a satellite-servicing firm owned by Northrop Grumman, last week successfully fired the electric propulsion system it is developing for the Mission Extension Pods it plans to launch in 2024.

Satellite servicing companies see different demand in LEO versus GEO
Developers of satellite servicing technologies expect interest in refueling and life extension to come from customers in geostationary orbit and beyond, while low Earth orbit operators instead seek end-of-life disposal services.

After technical demonstrations, satellite servicing grapples other issues
With the technical feasibility of satellite servicing now being demonstrated, companies and other organizations in the field are now grappling with other issues, from legal and regulatory challenges to the development of standards.

Traditional launch services may not suit the needs of the future Space Force
How the Pentagon buys launch services in the future could change as the military considers using emerging technologies and services known as “space mobility and logistics.”

Industry weighs government’s role in satellite servicing
With the first commercial satellite servicing spacecraft about to launch, industry executives argue that government agencies, primarily seen as developers of key servicing technologies, also need to be customers of those systems.

Orbital ATK’s giant leap into satellite servicing begins with baby steps
Orbital ATK subsidiary SpaceLogistics plans to offer customers a wide range of products and services, beginning with its Mission Extension Vehicle (MEV) and progressing to in-orbit spacecraft assembly, repair and cis-lunar transportation.