The European Space Agency (ESA) has helped Astroscale UK spearhead a cutting-edge project that could redefine the way satellites are kept in orbit.
Under the £350,000 Phase A contract, Astroscale will lead the design of the In-Orbit Retrofit and Upgrade Service (IRUS), a mission concept aimed at extending the lifetime of satellites, enabling repairs and integrating upgrades without returning to Earth.
The initiative highlights Europe’s increasing focus on space sustainability and on-orbit debris risk mitigation, and sets the stage for the next generation of on-orbit servicing technology.
Commenting on the funding, Nick Shave, managing director of Astroscale UK, said: “Astroscale is very pleased to have been selected by ESA for the IRUS Phase A project, which is a bold and exciting step towards a truly circular space economy.
“By exploring ways in which satellites can be upgraded and enhanced in orbit, we are helping to shape a sustainable future for space – one that delivers long-term value for carriers, governments and society at large.
“This research is an important milestone for Astroscale, our industrial partners and for the UK, which is increasingly focused on in-orbit services and dual-use technologies that support both civil and defense space activities.”
Paving the way for satellite refurbishment
The IRUS mission concept aims to transform the way satellites are maintained in orbit. Rather than treating satellites as disposable assets, IRUS enables upgrades, repairs, and life-extension interventions while the satellites remain in space.
By refurbishing its batteries, solar panels, and onboard computers, IRUS has the potential to reduce the need for launch replacements, reduce costs, and minimize space debris, addressing key priorities of ESA’s Space Safety Program.
The eight-month Phase A study will focus on both technical feasibility and commercial feasibility. Engineers and analysts will investigate how robotics and service technologies can safely interact with satellites already in orbit, forming the basis for more complex in-orbit service, assembly and manufacturing (ISAM) operations in the future.
Commenting on the study, Ross Findlay, ESA’s Head of Sustainable Engineering, added: “ESA’s mission to demonstrate in-orbit refurbishment is an important step towards a circular economy in space, aiming to enable sustainable orbital operations, reduce space debris and extend the lifetime of satellites.
“This will support ESA’s 2040 Strategy and position European industry as a leader in sustainable orbital operations. This first demonstration lays the foundation for future ISAM missions and ESA’s goal of becoming a space debris neutral country by 2040.”
Collaboration with industry leaders
Astroscale UK will work closely with BAE Systems, who will act as a future orbital services client.
This study demonstrates the upgrade of BAE Systems’ modular satellite platform and demonstrates the potential for modular retrofits and enhancements.
This collaboration reflects the transition to a circular space economy, where satellites are repaired and upgraded rather than replaced, and Earth-based innovations can be applied to operational spacecraft.
By combining Astroscale’s rendezvous and close operations (RPO) experience with BAE Systems’ satellite design expertise, IRUS is poised for a sustainable approach to orbital operations. It will also strengthen Europe’s competitiveness in the rapidly growing in-orbit services market.
Building UK leadership and capacity
The IRUS project presents a strategic opportunity for the UK space sector. The study leverages in-country expertise in robotics, modular satellite design and service systems, as well as business analysis capabilities for a niche but high-value market.
By investing in these skills and technologies now, the UK stands to benefit from both commercial and government opportunities in future orbital services and space manufacturing.
The project will also support high-value jobs and innovation, strengthening the UK’s leadership in developing the next generation of ISAM capabilities.
Toward a sustainable space future
IRUS is a major milestone towards a sustainable circular space economy by enabling in-orbit refurbishment and upgrades.
Satellites can remain operational longer, operators can reduce launch costs, and space safety is improved by reducing space debris production.
As the world looks to expand operations in low Earth orbit and beyond, IRUS research is laying an important foundation for the future of space infrastructure and demonstrating the transformative potential of future on-orbit servicing technologies.
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