US Space Force Secures $52M Deal to Deorbit Satellites

Starfish Space has secured a landmark contract with the U.S. Space Force valued at $52.5 million. This agreement marks the first instance of a company being tasked with deorbiting satellites from a low Earth orbit (LEO) constellation. The Washington-based firm will utilize its Otter spacecraft to remove at least one satellite from the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA).

$52M Contract for Satellite Deorbiting

Set for a 2027 launch, the Otter is engineered to capture and service satellites, including those not specifically designed for such operations. Austin Link, co-founder of Starfish Space, emphasized the mission’s significance, stating, “This contract and mission are proof that end-of-life satellite disposal can provide real value to LEO constellation operators.”

Transformative Approach to Military Space Operations

The Space Force’s PWSA constellation will eventually comprise hundreds of satellites dedicated to reconnaissance, navigation, and communications for the U.S. military. This shift from a few highly capable satellites to many affordable options represents a strategic change within military operations, enhancing resilience. Military officials argue that a larger satellite count complicates adversarial efforts to diminish operational effectiveness.

Addressing Space Debris Challenges

With the increase in satellite deployments, the issue of space debris becomes critical. Operators face the dilemma of whether to deorbit satellites early to mitigate debris or extend their use to maximize investment returns. Starfish Space believes the Otter spacecraft can effectively address this challenge.

• Maximize operational lifespan of satellites.
• Utilize Otters for deorbiting satellites at the end of their life cycle.

Technological Readiness and Future Plans

Although the Otter has not yet launched, Starfish Space has previously demonstrated significant technological capabilities. Notably, the Otter Pup 1 successfully maneuvered within 0.6 miles (1 kilometer) of a target in orbit last year. Additionally, a recent mission saw the Impulse Space’s Mira vehicle utilizing Starfish software to approach another satellite.

Starfish Space aims to gain valuable experience with early Otter missions, crucial for their inaugural deorbiting project for the Space Force. These developments highlight the growing importance of satellite servicing and disposal in maintaining sustainable operations in space.