HARWELL, U.K. - Astroscale UK in Harwell, England, has completed a study on refurbishing and upgrading satellites in orbit, aiming to extend their lifespan and reduce space debris, the company announced.
The study, conducted in collaboration with BAE Systems as part of the European Space Agency’s (ESA) "Systems Studies for a Circular Economy in Space," explored the feasibility of an In-orbit Refurbishment and Upgrading Service (IRUS). The project envisions a servicing satellite that can rendezvous with and upgrade modular client satellites built by BAE Systems.
"As satellite launches become more numerous and frequent, achieving a sustainable space industry is essential," said Nick Shave, managing director of Astroscale UK. "A future satellite upgrading service would allow customers to extend the life of their satellites by replacing older parts or equipping them with enhanced capabilities."
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BAE Systems also emphasized the need for sustainability in space operations. "Finding new ways to maximize the utility of existing satellites reduces space debris and the number of launches required," said Doug Liddle, director of space at BAE Systems’ Digital Intelligence business. "Creating a circular space economy is a team effort, and we’re incredibly proud to play our part."
The study, which also included solar technology firm DHV Technology, supports a broader effort to transition from a single-use approach to a circular space economy. Astroscale UK led one of four consortiums in ESA’s initiative and was selected to advance its concept at ESA’s Concurrent Design Facility.
A demonstration mission for IRUS is targeted for 2030, with the long-term goal of making in-orbit servicing a standard practice by 2040. The initiative will complement Astroscale’s existing End-of-Life service, which is set to deorbit a Eutelsat OneWeb satellite in 2026.
