Us Space Force Partners With Starfish Space For Historic Satellite Deorbit Mission

Starfish Space Wins Contract to Deorbit US Space Force Satellites

The private space industry has received a significant boost with the recent award of a $50+ million contract by the US government to Starfish Space, a Washington-based company. This mission marks a major milestone for the company, which will demonstrate its capabilities in providing real-world support for the US military’s growing satellite fleet.

Starfish Space’s Otter spacecraft is a 660-pound vessel that consists mainly of thrusters, solar panels, and grabbers for attaching to other satellites. Although relatively small in size, the Otter is equipped with advanced control software that enables safe and low-impact rendezvous in orbit. The company’s Cetacean and Cephalopod programs are expected to play a crucial role in this mission, allowing for precise and efficient satellite deorbiting.

The US Space Force’s Proliferated Warfighter Architecture (PWSA) program is driving this contract, as it seeks to diversify the US military’s orbital technology by using more smaller, cheaper satellites. This approach offers greater resilience against attacks, but also creates more satellites that need tracking and servicing. By partnering with Starfish Space, the US Space Force aims to tap into the company’s expertise in satellite deorbiting and maintenance.

The Otter spacecraft has undergone several tests and demonstrations, including a successful launch of its smaller version, the Otter Pup vehicle. The company’s control software has been praised for its effectiveness in enabling safe and efficient satellite operations. However, the company is now focusing on refining its control software to ensure that it can meet the demanding requirements of the US Space Force.

The Otter’s size, weight, and price are significant advantages over prior “space tugs” or “orbital transfer vehicles” (OTVs). These larger vessels were capable of performing similar tasks but were more expensive to build, harder to launch, and potentially less compatible with small craft. The Otter’s compact design and low cost make it an attractive option for satellite servicing missions.

Starfish Space has consistently met or exceeded its targets, earning the company a reputation as one of the most innovative and forward-thinking players in the private space industry. With this new contract, Starfish Space is poised to cement its position as a leader in satellite servicing and deorbiting.

The Otter Pup 2 launched last year, and although its exploits have yet to be released, it’s likely that any preliminary performance data has been positive. The company’s control software has undergone extensive testing, and the results are expected to be impressive. By delivering a successful deorbiting mission by 2027, Starfish Space will not only meet its contractual obligations but also cement its reputation as a trusted partner for the US Space Force.

This contract marks a significant milestone for the private space industry, demonstrating the growing capabilities of companies like Starfish Space. As the demand for satellite support continues to grow, it’s likely that we’ll see more innovative solutions from companies like Starfish Space. With its cutting-edge technology and aggressive timelines, Starfish Space is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend and become a leading player in the satellite servicing industry.

Satellite deorbiting has become an increasingly critical component of space sustainability as the number of satellites in orbit continues to grow. Companies like Starfish Space are playing a vital role in addressing this challenge, providing innovative solutions that balance the needs of governments, organizations, and individuals.

Starfish Space’s contract to deorbit US Space Force satellites marks an exciting new chapter in the company’s history. With its cutting-edge technology, aggressive timelines, and commitment to innovation, Starfish Space is poised to become a leader in the satellite servicing industry. As we look to the future of space exploration and utilization, it’s clear that companies like Starfish Space will play a critical role in shaping the next generation of space-based technologies.