New Delhi: The Technology Development Board (TDB) under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, has extended financial assistance to OrbitAID Aerospace Private Limited.
The funding will support the company’s project titled ‘Development of Docking and Refueling Systems for In-Space Life Extension of Satellites.’
This marks an important step toward strengthening the country’s private space ecosystem with new support for advanced satellite servicing technology.
Boost to India’s Private Space Ecosystem
The initiative aligns with the Government of India’s broader strategy to encourage private sector participation in the space industry and strengthen indigenous technological capabilities.
OrbitAID Aerospace is working to develop advanced on-orbit satellite servicing technologies, particularly systems that can refuel satellites while they are still in space. These capabilities can help reduce costs for satellite operators, improve efficiency, and address challenges related to space congestion and satellite lifecycle management.
By enabling satellites to remain operational longer, in-space refueling can significantly cut the need for expensive replacement launches.
SIDRP: The Core Technology
At the center of the project is a new technology called the Standard Interface Docking and Refueling Port (SIDRP). The system is currently at Technology Readiness Level 7 (TRL-7), indicating that a prototype has already been demonstrated in a relevant environment.
SIDRP integrates a satellite fill-and-drain valve with a dual docking interface designed for both ground testing and microgravity conditions. The system enables autonomous docking between satellites and supports safe propellant transfer in orbit.
The design also incorporates several safety and reliability features, including dual docking mechanisms and built-in redundancies to ensure secure operations during fuel transfer.
Toward a Sustainable Space Infrastructure
With financial support from TDB, OrbitAID plans to further develop, test, and demonstrate the SIDRP system in space. The project is expected to contribute to the creation of an indigenous on-orbit satellite servicing ecosystem in India.
Officials say such technologies represent the next frontier of commercial space activity and will help India remain competitive in the rapidly evolving global space industry. The initiative is also expected to open new opportunities for satellite life-extension services while promoting more sustainable use of space infrastructure.
Discussion about this post