Airbus and Astroscale UK sign Memorandum of Understanding to explore collaboration in In-Orbit Servicing programmes

Airbus Defence and Space Limited (“Airbus”) and Astroscale Limited (“Astroscale UK”), the UK subsidiary of Astroscale Holdings Inc. (“Astroscale”), the market leader in satellite servicing and long-term orbital sustainability, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore collaborative opportunities in the field of in-orbit servicing and space debris removal. 

This strategic partnership aims to leverage the strengths and capabilities of both companies to address the growing challenges of space sustainability and satellite longevity, with a particular focus on advancing the UK’s efforts in the in-orbit servicing and manufacturing industry and building a circular economy in space.

The key objectives of this collaboration include:

• Space Debris Removal: Exploring innovative methods to identify, capture, and remove space debris from Earth’s orbit. This is critical for ensuring the safety of current and future space missions and maintaining a sustainable space environment. This area includes the ongoing collaboration on utilisation of the Airbus VISPA robotic arm on future Astroscale missions. 
• In-Orbit Servicing: Developing technologies and solutions for the maintenance, repair, and enhancement of satellites while in orbit. This effort aims to extend the operational lifespan of satellites, reduce space debris, and improve the overall efficiency of space operations.
• In-Orbit Rendezvous and Proximity Operations: Enhancing capabilities for precise and safe satellite manoeuvring in space. This includes the development of sophisticated navigation and docking technologies essential for satellite servicing and debris removal missions.
• In-Orbit Space Assembly and Manufacture: Exploring new possibilities for constructing and assembling spacecraft components directly in space. This ground breaking approach supports the development of a circular economy in space, where resources can be reused and repurposed to reduce waste and lower the cost of space missions.
• Satellite Refuelling and Life Extension: Ensuring the continued operation and extended lifespan of existing satellites through in-orbit refuelling and other services. This reduces the need for launching replacement satellites, contributing to a more sustainable space industry.

“By partnering with Airbus, we are taking a major step forward in advancing the UK’s leadership in the in-orbit servicing and manufacturing industry,” said Managing Director of Astroscale UK, Nick Shave. “Our combined efforts will not only enhance the longevity and efficiency of space assets but also contribute to building a circular economy in space, where resources are reused and repurposed. This collaboration is crucial for addressing the challenges of space debris and ensuring a sustainable space environment for future generations.”

Patrick Wood, Head of Space Systems UK, Airbus Defence and Space, said: “With thousands of tons of space junk in orbit, ensuring space sustainability is vital to protect the space environment and the satellites which are key to our daily lives, providing navigation and global connectivity, climate monitoring and accurate weather forecasts.”

This partnership underscores the commitment of both Airbus and Astroscale to drive innovation and sustainability in the space industry. By combining Airbus’s extensive experience in satellite manufacturing and space systems with Astroscale’s pioneering flight-proven rendezvous and proximity operations and in-orbit servicing technologies, the collaboration aims to set new standards in space safety and operational efficiency.