Astroscale announces groundbreaking mission to refuel U.S. military satellite in 2026 (X @Astroscale_US)
Astroscale, a company specialized in orbital services and logistics, has announced an ambitious mission for 2026 to refuel a U.S. Space Force military satellite.
The 300-kilogram probe will be launched 35,786 kilometers above the equator to demonstrate the feasibility of in-orbit refueling and help create a commercial ecosystem for the future.
The mission, unveiled during the 40th Space Symposium in Colorado Springs, aims to increase the flexibility and agility of space operations. Astroscale’s APS-R Refueler spacecraft, designed for high maneuverability, will carry hydrazine—an essential propellant for artificial satellites. This will be the first refueling mission using this chemical compound beyond geostationary orbit (GEO) and will also mark the first support mission for a U.S. Department of Defense satellite.
Additionally, Astroscale has partnered with Orbit Fab to build a commercial refueling infrastructure in space. Supported by the Tetra-5 satellites, which will carry Orbit Fab’s fluid transfer interface, the mission aims to pave the way for scalable and sustainable space services, enabling greater maneuverability and operational flexibility.
Source: Olhar Digital | Photo: X @Astroscale_US | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
BIG NEWS: We’re leading a refueling mission for a @SpaceForceDoD satellite on orbit with our APS-R spacecraft!
The servicer will open a greater level of agility and flexibility for the United States Space Force.
This mission will mark the first time a U.S. Space Force asset… pic.twitter.com/XzbAgEl7Ej
— Astroscale U.S. (@Astroscale_US) April 8, 2025
