From Poland, game-changing in-orbit refuelling tech

Warsaw-based PIAP Space is aiming to extend the life of satellites with cutting-edge in-orbit refuelling solutions.

Poland is about to shake up the space industry. Warsaw-based PIAP Space this week announced the launch (in every sense of the word) of a major new project, INORT (In-Orbit Refuelling Technology for Unprepared and Prepared Satellites), which aims to extend the operational life of satellites by developing advanced in-orbit refuelling technology.

Imagine satellites that are still fully functional but forced out of service simply because they run out of fuel—INORT, says PIAP, is here to fix that.

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Funded by Poland’s contribution to the European Space Agency (ESA), this project is a collaborative effort with the Łukasiewicz Research Network’s Institute of Aviation.

Why does this matter? In-orbit refuelling is a game-changer for space exploration. It slashes costs by reducing the need for constant satellite replacements and supports more sustainable mission designs by cutting down on the number of deorbiting satellites.

What’s more, the technology isn’t just for future satellites—it’s designed to work with current models that were never intended to be refuelled in orbit.

Currently, Europe lacks a standard for refuelling satellites in space. INORT is stepping up to fill this gap by creating a comprehensive roadmap for an in-orbit refuelling service. This includes everything from developing the technology for proximity operations, docking (a specialty of PIAP Space), servicing, and disconnection, to creating docking systems for non-responsive objects and robotic arm control systems for precision tasks in orbit.

Additionally, the project will focus on in-orbit manipulation and fuel transfer technologies, dramatically boosting the capabilities of space services.

Sustainable space technology

“We’re thrilled to be at the forefront of sustainable space technology with the INORT project,” says Marcin Dobrowolski, CEO of PIAP Space.

“This initiative not only reinforces our commitment to responsible space operations but also propels innovation in satellite technology. We’re crafting solutions that meet today’s needs and pave the way for the future.”

The Space Technology Centre at the Łukasiewicz Research Network—Institute of Aviation is leading the charge on refuelling technologies, including mechanical connectors and propellant transfer procedures. Meanwhile, its Unmanned Technology Centre is tackling the energy aspects of the mission, developing optoelectronic sensors for satellite localisation, and refining the manoeuvres required for docking and post-docking operations.

“The ability to refuel satellites in orbit is a crucial leap forward for space exploration,” adds Paweł Surmacz, head of the Satellite Propulsion Section at the Łukasiewicz—Institute of Aviation.

“This technology can save millions by reducing the need to replace satellites and lowering the number of satellites that need to be de-orbited. And it’s not just for the future—this tech applies to both current and next-gen satellite models.”

Leading space exploration

PIAP Space has been a key player in developing robotic solutions for the space industry since 2017. Its track record is impressive. In 2022, it built a prototype chassis for the Sample Fetch Rover (SFR) as part of the NASA-ESA Mars Sample Return mission, aimed at bringing Martian rock samples back to Earth.

The firm is also the prime contractor for ESA’s advanced robotic arm project, TITAN, designed for precise orbital operations.

In January 2024, PIAP Space announced that its prototype robotic arm model is being tested for integration into ESA’s ARGONAUT lander project. This arm will be crucial for safely transporting cargo from the lander to the Moon’s surface, enabling tasks like manned missions, equipment and material transportation, and autonomous lunar exploration.

And if that wasn’t enough, the firm recently wrapped up the ORBITA project, which introduced specialised robotic grippers to enhance satellite servicing in orbit.

Now, with INORT, PIAP Space is not just contributing to the future of space exploration—it’s leading it.

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