Electroadhesive Docking for Satellite Servicing and Refueling

Current spacecraft docking mechanisms use grapples, magnets, claws, or nets – all of which have multiple failure points or are constrained by the ability to only dock with objects that have a complementary docking plate or adapter outfitted prior to launch. In Orbit Aerospace proposes to strengthen US capabilities in the On-orbit Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing (OSAM) domain by developing a modular electroadhesive docking mechanism to safely dock with or capture Resident Space Objects (RSOs), agnostic of size, shape, or surface material properties without the risk of damaging their surface or on-board avionics systems. This mechanism offers servicing satellites the capability for docking, refueling, performing active debris removal, or extending the life of RSOs in Low Earth orbit, cislunar space, and beyond. In Orbit’s docking mechanism offers commercial and defense end-users the ability to service a wide range of clients RSOs by leveraging the benefits of a low-cost, ultra-low power usage, robust adhesion method suitable for delicate objects and the harsh environment of space.