Rogue Space Systems Corporation has been awarded a $1.25 million contract by SpaceWERX, the innovation arm of the U.S. Space Force, to advance the development of its Orbot™ satellite platform. This investment underscores the growing importance of in-space servicing, assembly, and manufacturing (ISAM) capabilities in the evolving space economy. The Orbot™, designed as a versatile orbital robot, is poised to become a foundational element in creating 'economic neighborhoods in space,' offering a broad spectrum of logistical support for ISAM missions.
The Orbot™ distinguishes itself through its adaptability and utility, featuring standardized interfaces for the seamless integration of mission-specific attachments. This design philosophy enables the platform to be quickly reconfigured for diverse tasks such as debris removal, satellite inspections, and servicing operations. Barbara Plante, Rogue's Chief Space Architect, highlighted the platform's flexibility, noting its ability to rapidly integrate and deploy various mission-specific payloads.
Powered by a sophisticated propulsion system, the Orbot™ combines high Delta-V capabilities for significant orbital adjustments with a 6 DOF RCS system for precise maneuvering, enhancing its operational efficiency. The inclusion of refueling capabilities further extends its service life, making it a sustainable option for long-term space missions. At the heart of the Orbot™'s operational prowess is Rogue's Edge Computing Scalable Compute Platform (SCP), which supports advanced algorithms for autonomous operations, including Rendezvous and Proximity Operations (RPO) and logistic functionalities.
Jon Beam, Rogue's CEO, emphasized the Orbot™'s potential to revolutionize space logistics, describing it as a critical component of the 'last-mile logistics workforce in space.' This development not only showcases technological innovation but also exemplifies the success of the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs in fostering rapid advancements in the space sector. The contract signifies a leap forward in establishing a sustainable space economy, with the Orbot™ platform at the forefront of enabling a wide array of space operations, from satellite servicing to debris management.
