ESA Advances In-Orbit Servicing Missions

The European Space Agency (ESA) is advancing its In-Orbit Servicing (IOS) missions, which aim to extend the life and functionalities of satellites already in orbit. ESA has invited industry partners to outline their vision for Europe's first IOS mission, with funding provided to mature their ideas. The telecommunications industry is particularly interested in life extension services, including orbital maintenance and fuel replenishment. Three of the four proposals came from "New Space" companies, and ESA's Space Safety program plans to move forward with two of the proposed missions, with the goal of making IOS a common procedure by the early to mid-2030s.