ClearSpace, the Vaud-based start-up at the forefront of in-orbit servicing and space debris removal, has recently secured a groundbreaking contract with the UK Space Agency.
The REFUEL.ME study, slated to run until September 2024, sets out to establish the essential mission requirements and the mission’s concept of operations. This initiative is expected to culminate in the initial design of the servicer satellite while assessing the substantial market potential for such services. ClearSpace’s inaugural task will be to refuel the UK National Debris Removal Mission, a project the start-up is concurrently conceptualizing. The capability to extend satellite lifetimes through refueling represents a pivotal stride towards maintaining valuable assets in orbit longer, thereby mitigating the need for frequent replacements and contributing to the reduction of space debris.
Building on its leadership position within the in-orbit services sector, ClearSpace’s growth is exemplified by its expanding UK subsidiary, which is deeply involved in developing the CLEAR Spacecraft for the UK National Debris Removal mission. This venture benefits from leveraging existing developments and key technologies shared across various in-orbit services, enhancing value by utilizing the UK’s prior investments in active debris removal, in-orbit services, and refueling interfaces.
A step towards a more sustainable, safer, and cleaner future in space exploration
ClearSpace’s ambition to provide future commercial refueling services is supported by a UK-based consortium comprising key industry partners, each bringing specialized expertise to the table. Orbit Fab, known for its pioneering refueling systems, Satellite Applications Catapult, with its vast experience in validating complex Rendezvous and Proximity Operations (RPO) in a dedicated testing facility, and Know.space, a leader in commercial and economic analysis, are all part of this consortium.
Rory Holmes, ClearSpace UK Managing Director, emphasized the company’s dedication to ensuring the sustainability of humanity’s space operations. The UK Space Agency’s GBP 2 million investment for researching and developing refueling missions underscores a shared vision for the UK to lead in the emerging market of in-orbit servicing.
