US: Space gas stations a step closer with Orbit Fab’s refueling nozzle success

For years, satellites have been limited by their insufficient fuel capacity. But what if they could get fuel in space? A Colorado-based startup, Orbit Fab, aims to solve this issue by providing on-orbit refueling services.

The start-up recently reported the successful ground testing of GRIP (Grapple, Reposition, and Interface Payload), an in-space fuelling nozzle. The extensive testing of its GRIP system was conducted at the Air Force Research Lab’s facilities.

This crucial step ensured the system could dock with satellites at various angles and velocities. This test brings space gas stations closer to reality.

“We are ahead of schedule following these key GRIP tests that put the major technical risks behind us. We will be providing GRIP and related fluid transfer systems to multiple partners who wish to add fuel delivery capability to their satellite servicing vehicles,” said Daniel Faber, Orbit Fab CEO.

GRIP will be equipped on a fuel depot

The test focused on GRIP’s ability to attach to a satellite via a RAFTI (Rapidly Attachable Fluid Transfer Interface) port. The basketball-sized GRIP refueling device aced its test, successfully docking with a satellite and simulating the process of refilling its fuel.

RAFTI is a key component that makes in-orbit refueling possible. RAFTI consists of an octagonal grapple fixture that serves as the docking port for the satellites that need to be refueled. It has eight flat surfaces that other spacecraft, such as a fuel depot, can hook onto.

Interestingly, this method facilitates autonomous docking, eliminating the need for complicated robotic arms for refilling.

Engineers ran the GRIP mechanism through its paces to simulate real-world conditions. The test executed various docking scenarios and evaluated how it would approach the satellite at different angles and speeds.

These were executed using simulation facilities at Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

The company has already delivered several units

In preparation for upcoming missions, Orbit Fab recently delivered GRIP hardware and several RAFTI units.

The Space Force Tetra-5 program will be among the first to use this technology. Their satellites will be equipped with RAFTI ports, allowing a fuel depot with a GRIP system to refuel them in orbit.

Orbit Fab is also partnering with various companies to create fuel shuttles equipped with GRIP technology. Their partnerships extend to both government and commercial programs, making in-space refueling a reality for a wide range of missions.

“RAFTI refueling ports are flight qualified and for $30,000 can replace a spacecraft fill and drain valve while adding the flexibility for in-space refueling. Orbit Fab is providing commercial and government missions a viable, affordable path to in-space refueling for spacecraft being built today,” said Adam Harris, the company’s Chief Commercial Officer, in the press release.

Refueling in space has various benefits. Satellites may prolong their operational lives, change their orbits to improve performance, and even take on new tasks. Meanwhile, Northrop Grumman is a strong contender in the growing military satellite refueling market.