ClearSpace awarded UK vehicle refueling contract

[john57sharp]

The UK Space Agency has awarded ClearSpace a contract to design a mission for refueling in space.

https://twitter.com/clearspacetoday/status/1759926156994703461?s=61&t=_FaKqlNjg5d48D95XRUojw


The company has already received awards to design debris removal missions, and this mission seeks to extend the life of failing satellites before they become debris.

“ The REFUEL.ME study, which will run until September 2024, will involve the establishment of the key mission requirements and the definition of the mission concept of operations, leading to an initial design of the servicer satellite and a review of the sizeable market potential. Ultimately, the selected servicer will first refuel the UK National Debris Removal Mission, for which ClearSpace is also developing a concept, before continuing to refuel other commercial satellites. Enabling satellite lifetimes to be extended in this manner, ensures such valuable assets can be retained for longer, reducing the frequency of replacement, and aiding the reduction of further space debris generated by defunct satellites.”
From press release: https://clearspace.today/clearspace-secures-another-uk-contract-to-develop-refuelling-capabilities/