Never heard of a fuel station in space? Well, Indian startups are working on technologies to build just that – a space fuel station. OrbitAid Aerospace Private Limited and Manastu Space Technologies Private Limited, both Indian startups, are independently engaged in developing these technologies. However, OrbitAid Aerospace specializes specifically in the development of these types of technologies.
You’ve likely heard about air-to-air refueling for fighter jets, but there’s a possibility you’ll soon hear about refueling satellites in space. This new idea of a fuel station in space is all about making satellites last longer, so we don’t have to launch new satellites as often. It helps save money, reduces the risk of space debris, and avoids the higher costs of sending up new satellites to replace the old ones.
All About Fuel Station in Space
These Startups are working on creating a constellation of tanker satellites to set up a ‘Space Fuel Station.’ These satellites are equipped with the necessary technology for docking and transferring fuel to other satellites. These tankers will positioned strategically in different orbits and will carry a variety of fuels—ranging from monopropellants and bi-propellants to electric propulsion fuels— catering to the specific requirements of the clients.
To facilitate refueling, OrbitAid Aerospace has introduced a product known as the Standard Interface Docking and Refueling Port (SIDRP). This is a dual-purpose fill-and-drain valve equipped with an integrated dual docking mechanism, serving as a fuel station that can also support refueling for upcoming interplanetary missions.
OrbitAID is currently engaging in discussions with ISRO and several international partners regarding the deployment of tanker satellites. Additionally, OrbitAID’s plans involve on-orbit-servicing (OOS) for various space applications. In OOS, the focus is on servicing, repairing, and even upgrading satellites that are already in orbit.
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OrbitAid Aerospace
OrbitAid Aerospace Private Limited incubated at the MSME Centre of Excellence located at IISc Bengaluru. Which develops solutions for extending satellite life, reducing debris, and enhancing operational flexibility. Which was founded by Sakthikumar R., Nikhil Balasubramanian, and Mano Balaji K. in 2021.
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