Autonomous Spacecraft Technology for Repair Operations, Lifespan Improvement and Flight Testing

Introduction

Satellites are the backbone of our communication system, with over 5,500 satellites carrying signals across the world. However, once satellites reach orbit, there is no way to inspect, upgrade, or repair them.

Project Overview

D-Orbit presents GEA, a disruptive spacecraft to be operated in geostationary orbit for in-orbit servicing (IOS) of commercial satellites. The spacecraft will be equipped with a robotic arm with 7 degrees-of-freedom and 3 mm accuracy.

Features of GEA

GEA also includes:

• Electric propulsion
• Navigation and altitude control subsystems specifically designed to capture and maneuver customer satellites.

Thanks to this innovation, D-Orbit will provide diverse IOS such as life extension and orbital relocation.

Benefits

Satellite operators will be able to:

1. Extend the life of their satellites by up to 3 extra years (25-50% of the current lifetime).
2. Achieve extra revenues with their existing assets of 20M per year.

The extension can go up to 7 years with GEA.

Market Target

We target to capture up to 25% of the serviceable 33 GEO satellites with end of life in 2027-2030 for the initial service offering. This would provide us with over 530 million in cumulative revenues by 2030 from IOS.

Funding Request

Nonetheless, we are unable to fund this risky deep-tech innovation from private investment in the current market landscape. Therefore, we request this funding from the EIC for the ASTROLIFT project, in the form of:

• 2.5M in Grant
• 15M in Equity.