The UK Space Agency has awarded a major project grant of £1.3 million to Orbit Fab under the National Space Innovation Programme, marking a significant step towards pioneering sustainable space operations.
This funding will support the development of a high-pressure version of the RAFTI (Rapid Fuel Transfer Interface) refuelling port, scheduled for launch in 2025.
This new technology will facilitate refuelling using compressed fuels such as xenon, reducing reliance on single-use satellites and promoting more sustainable practices in space. OrbitFab has also secured additional contracts, including £165,000 from the European Space Agency (ESA) via City University of London and £500,000 for the initial design phase of a refuelling mission for a future spacecraft to remove active debris in the UK.
The UKRefuel mission, a collaborative effort with ClearSpace and Astroscale, aims to launch a satellite refueling service in low Earth orbit by 2027. This initiative follows Orbit Fab’s commitment to the ESA Zero Debris Charter, highlighting their dedication to sustainable space operations and responsible refueling.
“Expanding our UK office and embarking on these new projects is a significant milestone for OrbitFab,” said Daniel Faber, CEO and co-founder of OrbitFab. “With the support of the UK Space Agency and our partners, we are working to enhance the UK’s space capabilities and set new standards for sustainable space operations. Together, our UK and US offices are paving the way for a future where orbital refuelling is standard practice, fuelling a thriving space economy and ensuring a more sustainable space environment.”
Dr Paul Pitt, Chief Executive of the UK Space Agency, added: “The National Space Innovation Programme will help drive growth, create high-quality jobs, protect our planet and preserve the space environment for future generations. New projects, such as this one led by OrbitFab, go to the heart of what we want to achieve as a national space agency – supporting cutting-edge innovation, spreading opportunities across the UK and returning the benefits of space to people on Earth.”
In addition to developing RAFTI, Orbit Fab is collaborating on two other projects under the National Space Innovation Program. These include working with Magdrive on a replaceable solid fuel cartridge for Magdrive’s propulsion system and with Lunasa on sensors for safe rendezvous and proximity operations in orbit.
After a year of significant growth, Orbit Fab has tripled its UK workforce to 15 and plans to open a new office in Harwell, Oxfordshire. The expansion will support the continued development and operation of orbital refuelling services, which are essential for national security, communications, Earth observation and science missions in space.
