NASA and Starfish Space Push Forward with Development of In-Orbit Servicing Satellite

 

 

 

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is advancing in-orbit satellite servicing technologies by collaborating with startups to enhance the necessary capabilities.

On September 25, NASA announced that it had signed a $15 million contract with Seattle-based space technology startup 'Starfish Space' to develop an in-orbit servicing satellite.

This investment is part of the Phase III contract under the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program, which supports innovative space technologies developed by small businesses.

The contract has been awarded to 'Starfish Space,' headquartered in Seattle, and the company will develop the in-orbit servicing satellite named 'Small Spacecraft Propulsion and Inspection Capability' (SSPICY), aiming for a launch by the end of 2026.

The satellite, named SSPICY, will be based on Starfish Space's small satellite life extension and disposal service satellite 'Otter.'

SSPICY is set to perform missions using electric propulsion to approach and inspect decommissioned satellites that have been pre-selected after it enters orbit.

According to NASA, this mission aims to strengthen the capabilities of the U.S. private sector in the fields of in-orbit servicing, space logistics, and satellite disposal.

Starfish Space was founded in 2019 by engineers with experience at Blue Origin and NASA, and it has gained attention for developing the small refrigerator-sized satellite 'Otter.'

The company secured a $14 million investment in March 2023, recognizing its potential for growth.

Bo Naasz, the NASA official responsible for the SSPICY mission, stated, "Through this mission, we aim to enhance the space technology capabilities of the U.S. and pave the way for private companies to take a leading role in space development."

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NASA and Starfish Space Push Forward with Development of In-Orbit Servicing Satellite