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Space

Space Force Contracts With Astroscale For On-Orbit Refueling Demonstration

By Cal Biesecker

Tuesday, April 8th, 2025

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Space Force Contracts With Astroscale For On-Orbit Refueling Demonstration

Astroscale U.S. on-orbit refueler. Image: Astroscale

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo.—Astroscale U.S. has contracted with the U.S. Space Force to conduct the first ever refueling missions of Defense Department assets in space, and the first time hydrazine refueling operations will be done above geostationary orbit (GEO), the company said on Tuesday. Under the $61 million contract, Astroscale U.S. expected to launch its 300-kilogram ASPR refueling spacecraft in the summer of 2026 and, following a 45-day check out period, will first conduct rendezvous and proximity operations with a DoD…

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