D-Orbit and ESA Join Forces for Groundbreaking In-Orbit Servicing Mission

On October 14, 2024, D-Orbit, an Italian space logistics company, secured a significant €119.6 million ($131 million) contract with the European Space Agency (ESA) to develop a pioneering spacecraft servicing vehicle aimed at geostationary satellites. This initiative is part of ESA's Space Safety Programme and represents a critical step towards sustainable operations in space.

Overview of the RISE Mission

The mission, named RISE (Robotic In-orbit Servicing Experiment), is designed to demonstrate the capability to safely rendezvous with, dock to, and maneuver geostationary satellites. This technology will enable the extension of operational life for satellites that are still functional but require assistance with attitude and orbit control. Following successful demonstrations, D-Orbit plans to offer commercial life extension services for these satellites.

Objectives and Significance

The RISE mission aims to address two pressing challenges in space: extending the lifespan of existing satellites and mitigating space debris. The ESA has committed to a Zero Debris approach, intending to minimize the environmental impact of space operations by ensuring safe disposal practices by 2030. RISE will not only enhance satellite longevity but also contribute significantly to creating a circular economy in space, which includes potential future services like refueling and refurbishment.

Mission Timeline and Execution

Scheduled for launch around 2027 or 2028, RISE will embark on an eight-year mission. Initially, the spacecraft will position itself in a staging orbit above the geostationary belt before conducting rigorous system tests. The operational phase will involve docking with a target satellite in the so-called "graveyard orbit," approximately 100 kilometers above the geostationary belt, where defunct satellites are typically parked. Once successfully docked, RISE will take control of the satellite’s attitude and orbit, demonstrating its ability to maneuver effectively. After completing its tasks, RISE will release the satellite and await future commercial operations.

Future Implications for Space Sustainability

This collaboration between D-Orbit and ESA underscores a broader commitment to sustainable practices in space exploration. Holger Krag, Head of Space Safety at ESA, emphasized that this project is vital for establishing in-orbit servicing capabilities that can extend satellite lifespans and reduce wasteful practices in spaceflight. D-Orbit's CEO, Luca Rossettini, remarked on the importance of this partnership, stating that it positions Europe at the forefront of innovative solutions in space logistics. The successful implementation of RISE could revolutionize how satellites are managed in orbit, paving the way for future advancements in satellite servicing technologies.

 

The RISE mission marks a pivotal moment for both D-Orbit and ESA as they venture into uncharted territory in space sustainability. By developing technologies that allow for the servicing and life extension of satellites in geostationary orbit, they are setting the stage for a new era of responsible space operations that prioritize both functionality and environmental stewardship.