The future of in-space services took center stage last week as the Space Systems Command hosted its second annual Space Mobility Conference in Orlando. The event gathered commercial companies, investors, and military leaders exploring how to catalyze growth in on-orbit servicing, assembly, and manufacturing.
The industry is developing technologies such as satellite-refueling systems and space tugs for debris removal. But discussions at the conference extended beyond the hardware to tackle bigger picture questions: How can the government stimulate private demand? What standards and regulations are needed for the market to flourish? How does the U.S. ensure it doesn't lose its competitive edge to other space powers?
The bottom line:
The Space Force sees the potential in on-orbit capabilities to extend satellite lifespan and relocate assets in space. But there are still unanswered questions around funding and requirements.
Panelists noted that satellite-servicing is still an industry in its infancy. Executives believe there is huge potential but companies are grappling with economic unknowns and first-mover dilemmas.
Companies want a stronger commitment from the government beyond R&D projects, but the military points out they can't buy what doesn't yet exist.
What we learned:
The Space Force is working with 41 companies developing satellite servicing tech under the Orbital Prime program.
One of the challenges of Orbital Prime is identifying companies that can bridge the "valley of death" and attract private-sector dollars to keep operations going. That means expanding beyond government work.
Reports that Northrop Grumman scored an exclusive deal to supply satellite refueling ports to the Space Force have been greatly exaggerated, according to program executive Col. Joyce Bulson. She made one thing clear: the competition for space gas stations is still wide open.
Bulson's comments were in reaction to Northrop Grumman announcing that its Passive Refueling Module (PRM) was picked as a preferred standard for military satellites. She explained that the PRM underwent extra reviews because the government funded its development. It's one approved option, but it's not an exclusive deal.
Starship for military cargo?
SpaceX and the Air Force Research Lab have been digging into how Starship's roomy cargo bay and reusable design could be a game changer for rapid global transportation.
"It never made sense before," Air Force scientist Gregory Spanjers said at the conference. "Now it's looking a lot more attractive." AFRL has been working with SpaceX under the rocket cargo program for about two years.
If Starship is ready, the Air Force envisions flying a cargo demo as early as 2026. The goal is to containerize shipments for smooth transfers from rockets to other modes of transit as part of regular commercial launch flows.
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