Orbit Fab is on a mission to create “gas stations” for satellites by developing a mechanism called RAFTI for transferring propellant from orbital tankers to customer spacecraft. This innovative docking mechanism is now flight qualified and available on the market at a cost of just $30,000 per port.
Founded in 2018, Orbit Fab, based in Colorado and led by CEO Daniel Faber, who has extensive experience in the space industry, saw an opportunity in in-space refueling after initially focusing on satellite thrusters for orbital maneuvering. The potential to increase revenue for satellite missions by adding even just one extra kilogram of propellant was a key factor in driving this shift in focus.
Orbit Fab at TechCrunch Disrupt in 2019
With the emergence of satellite servicing companies like Astroscale focusing on various space applications, Orbit Fab saw the need for orbital gas stations to complement these services, leading to the birth of the company. By securing significant funding through seed and Series A rounds, Orbit Fab is making significant strides towards its goal of providing in-space refueling services.
The company’s core technology involves equipping customer satellites with RAFTI, a refueling port, before launch, allowing for easy refueling once in orbit. This simple yet crucial technology has the potential to revolutionize satellite operations by extending their lifespan and increasing their capabilities.
Orbit Fab is also adapting to meet the evolving needs of the space industry, including initiatives by the U.S. Space Force, which has spurred the company to focus on orbital mobility and satellite interaction to mitigate space debris and enhance satellite capabilities.
Image Credits: Orbit Fab (opens in a new window)
As Orbit Fab prepares to deploy its first RAFTIs and fuel shuttles, the company is focused on continuously improving its technology to support various types of spacecraft and propellants. By making satellites reusable through in-space refueling, Orbit Fab is contributing to a more sustainable and efficient satellite industry.
