New Delhi: In a significant step toward strengthening India’s private space ecosystem, OrbitAID Aerospace has received financial assistance from the Technology Development Board (TDB) under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India.
The support for OrbitAID Aerospace will fund the project titled “Development of Docking and Refueling Systems for In-Space Life Extension of Satellites.”
The initiative aligns with the Government of India’s vision to increase private sector participation in the space industry while fostering indigenous capabilities in advanced space technologies.
OrbitAID Aerospace is currently developing advanced on-orbit satellite servicing capabilities, including systems that can refuel operational satellites while they remain in space.
As the number of satellites in orbit continues to increase, such technologies are becoming increasingly critical for addressing challenges related to space congestion, satellite lifecycle management, and sustainable space operations.
Through its ongoing innovations, OrbitAID Aerospace aims to enable efficient satellite life-extension services that reduce the need for costly satellite replacement launches.
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OrbitAID Aerospace: Standard Interface Docking and Refueling Port
A key innovation in the project led by OrbitAID Aerospace is the Standard Interface Docking and Refueling Port (SIDRP). The system is designed at Technology Readiness Level 7 (TRL-7) and enables autonomous docking and propellant transfer between satellites in orbit.
The SIDRP integrates a satellite fill-and-drain valve with a dual docking interface and has been engineered to operate reliably in both ground testing environments and microgravity conditions.
The SIDRP system being developed by OrbitAID Aerospace incorporates advanced engineering features such as autonomous docking capabilities, dual docking mechanisms, and multiple built-in redundancies.
These features are intended to ensure safe and reliable propellant transfer between spacecraft. The technology allows a servicing satellite module to approach and dock with a client satellite, enabling in-orbit refueling.
Such a capability can significantly extend the operational life of satellites at a fraction of the cost required to launch replacement spacecraft.
During operational deployment, the OrbitAID Aerospace service module will approach a target satellite using advanced guidance, navigation, and control systems.
These systems are supported by LiDAR, optical, and infrared sensors to ensure precise positioning and maneuvering. Once the servicing spacecraft reaches close proximity to the target, the docking interface enables a soft capture mechanism followed by secure latching and safe propellant transfer to replenish the satellite’s fuel reserves.
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With financial support from the Technology Development Board, OrbitAID Aerospace will focus on the further development, testing, and in-space demonstration of the SIDRP system.
The project is expected to help establish an indigenous on-orbit satellite servicing ecosystem in India. It also has the potential to create new opportunities for satellite life-extension services, enhance operational efficiency for satellite operators, and contribute to sustainable space infrastructure.
Rajesh Kumar Pathak, Secretary of the Technology Development Board, stated: “India’s space sector has entered a transformative phase under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister, with reforms encouraging private enterprise and innovation.
Technologies such as on-orbit servicing and satellite life-extension systems represent the next frontier of commercial space activities. TDB remains committed to supporting Indian startups developing advanced space technologies that strengthen India’s global competitiveness and technological self-reliance.”
Promoters of OrbitAID Aerospace expressed appreciation for the support extended by the Technology Development Board and noted that the assistance will accelerate the development, testing, and in-space demonstration of the docking and refueling system.
The company believes the project will further position OrbitAID Aerospace as a contributor to India’s rapidly expanding space innovation ecosystem.
