The UK Space Agency (UKSA) has announced funding research for the refuelling an upcoming mission to remove space junk. The aim, for sustainability, is to help prolong the life of satellites and prevent adding more debris to the space environment.

UK Space Agency funds research for space fuel sustainability

Such In Orbit Servicing (IOS) missions are likely to be a key tool for ensuring the long-term sustainability of the space environment, believes the agency.

It says a total of £2 million is available for feasibility studies that “can demonstrate the ability to refuel the UK’s Active Debris Removal (ADR) mission and also look at opportunities for refuelling a commercial satellite as well”. Phase 1 projects can range in size up to total costs of £500K, inclusive of VAT.

“Satellites provide huge economic benefit for people here on Earth – but they’re currently limited to one tank of fuel!” highlighted Richard Lowe, co-Chair of the UKspace In-orbit Service & Manufacture (IOSM) Working Group.

“In-orbit refuelling is a key technology that can extend the life of satellites. It can also enable development of more capable infrastructure in space and help us to reduce in-orbit debris. This investment paves the way for space services that deliver even more value than today in a much more sustainable way.”

Guidance for those competing for the funding can be found here.

Essentially, there are three elements. First, to be capable of refuelling the UK ADR satellite in Low Earth Orbit. Second, to also be capable of refuelling a commercial partner. And third, establish plans for further development in the subsequent phases of the mission lifecycle – identify risks and propose realistic mitigations.

Debris
Setting context for the funding, the UKSA highlights that millions of defunct “space objects” are orbiting our planet, almost 37,000 measuring larger than 10cm and an estimated 130 million measuring less than 1 cm.

These can be anything from old satellites to astronaut tools and down in size to even flecks of paint. The speed at which they travel means they remain a threat to operating satellites.

While the commercial market for IOS services is still maturing, says the agency, the market for IOS services could be worth up to $2 billion to the UK by 2030.

“The potential economic gain from conducting IOS missions could, for the UK, be matched by longer term strategic benefits by being among the first movers in this new market. For example, developing the national skills, expertise and robotics capability needed to conduct IOS will enable UK industry to support other ambitious space projects like orbital assembly or space-based power generation.”

The UK has launched two preliminary studies to define a national ADR mission.

“This mission will build and grow UK capability in ADR and also grow key technologies such as Close Proximity Operations (CPO) and RPO which have cross-over use for IOS capability. Crucially, one of the mission requirements for the national ADR mission is to be refuellable, with each satellite design having a refuelling interface, offering a perfect client to test and derisk new and innovative refuelling and servicing technology.”