Revolutionizing Spacecraft Fueling: Astroscale Prototype Servicer for Refueling

The Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) in the US is collaborating with the US Space Force and aerospace company Astroscale US to develop a spacecraft called Astroscale Prototype Servicer for Refueling (APS-R). This prototype will be used to refuel compatible vehicles in geostationary orbit, where many telecommunications satellites are located. Running out of fuel is a common problem faced by thousands of satellites and spacecraft orbiting Earth, which often leads to them becoming inoperative even when their equipment is still functional.

The APS-R will move in a circular orbit that matches the Earth’s rotation period, allowing it to transport hydrazine propellant from storage to satellites in need of fuel. It will be able to service any spacecraft equipped with a compatible refueling port. SwRI is developing the spaceship bus at its Space Systems Orbiter and Payload Handling Facility, a 6,900 square meter facility built for assembling and testing small spacecraft efficiently. Once completed, cargo provided by Astroscale will be integrated into the spaceship bus, and environmental testing will be conducted before launch. The launch of the APS-R is planned for 2026, with SwRI aiming to have it ready for launch within the next 16 months.