Orbit Fab Achieves Milestone in In-Space Refueling with Successful GRIP Test

Orbit Fab, a Colorado-based startup specializing in in-space satellite refueling technology, has announced the successful test of its innovative fueling nozzle, GRIP (Grapple, Reposition, and Interface Payload).

The test, conducted at the Air Force Research Laboratory facility at Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque, New Mexico, demonstrated GRIP’s capability to dock with satellites and transfer propellant.

"The test showed that GRIP can establish and maintain a secure fluid connection, enabling in-orbit refueling operations," - Daniel Faber, CEO Daniel Faber

During the test, the GRIP device, roughly the size of a basketball, simulated the replenishment of a satellite low on fuel.

GRIP’s active docking and fluid transfer mechanism is engineered to operate seamlessly with Orbit Fab’s RAFTI (Rapidly Attachable Fluid Transfer Interface) refueling port. RAFTI replaces traditional fill and drain valves on satellite propulsion systems, simplifying the refueling process by eliminating the need for complex robotic arms.

The successful test positions Orbit Fab as a key competitor in the emerging military satellite refueling market, competing primarily against defense giant Northrop Grumman. The U.S. Space Force is currently evaluating both companies' refueling technologies.

"We want to get those technologies on orbit, test them out in an operational environment, and hedge our bets because we don’t know which one will work, and which one will work better than the other...Space is a warfighting environment, and the ability to maneuver is a huge distinct advantage for our forces" - Col. Joseph Roth, director of the Space Systems Command’s innovation and prototyping directorate

Orbit Fab’s next major milestone is the Space Force’s Tetra-5 experiment in 2025. During this experiment, three fuel delivery vehicles using the GRIP interface will attempt to dock and transfer propellant to three satellites in geostationary orbit.

The company is advancing towards flight qualification for GRIP, which involves rigorous environmental testing to ensure readiness for space operations.

"We will be providing GRIP and related fluid transfer systems to multiple partners who wish to add fuel delivery capability to their satellite servicing vehicles," - Daniel Faber, CEO Daniel Faber

Additionally, Orbit Fab is in discussions with manufacturers to license production of its RAFTI refueling port.

The successful demonstration of GRIP marks a significant step forward in the quest to establish reliable in-space refueling capabilities, promising to enhance the longevity and maneuverability of satellites in orbit.