Second Generation Docking Plates from Astroscale Selected by Airbus
Can be Integrated Seamlessly into Multiple Satellite Designs
A strategic contract has been inked between Airbus and Astroscale marking the first large scale commercial order of Astroscale's second-generation satellite docking plates. This strategic contract highlights the growing industry recognition of Astroscale’s innovative approach to addressing the urgent need for a circular economy in space.
"The Astroscale second-generation docking plate is more than a product; it’s a critical step toward future-proofing satellites for in-orbit servicing and end-of-life debris mitigation.”
Nick Shave, Astroscale
Orbital debris continues to endanger both active satellites and the broader space environment, driving a global demand for sustainable space practices. One of the ways Astroscale is addressing this challenge is by equipping satellites with future-proof docking technology designed to simplify in-orbit servicing and enable end-of-life removal. These docking plates align with international best practices and are critical in ensuring that new satellites are designed with sustainability and serviceability in mind.
Now at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 9 with flight heritage and with several further initial flight models set to launch into space in 2025, this order of over 100 docking plates marks the first large-scale commercial adoption of Astroscale’s Gen 2 docking plates by a major industry prime. By incorporating Astroscale’s docking plates, Airbus demonstrates its commitment to advancing sustainable practices in space and ensuring the longevity of its satellite constellations.
Building on the space-proven ELSA-d and ADRAS-J missions, the docking plate has also completed rigorous qualification testing for radiation, UV exposure, vibration, and shock, ensuring a low-risk, production-ready solution. With a flight lifetime exceeding 15 years, it is a durable and reliable option for long-term satellite missions. The docking plate integrates seamlessly into a wide range of satellite platforms and its advanced ferromagnetic technology ensures reliable capture during servicing while remaining minimally intrusive.
The docking plate is also servicer-agnostic, supporting various docking techniques such as robotic and magnetic capture, ensuring customers are not locked into proprietary solutions. Fiducial markers developed in-house provide accurate optical data for positioning and tumbling rates, reducing risks during rendezvous and proximity operations.
“This milestone order from Airbus underscores the industry’s increasing commitment to sustainable space operations. The Astroscale second-generation docking plate is more than a product; it’s a critical step toward future-proofing satellites for in-orbit servicing and end-of-life debris mitigation,” said Nick Shave, Managing Director, Astroscale UK. “We’re proud to support Airbus to enable a safer, more sustainable orbital environment.”
Astroscale’s second-generation docking plate sets a new benchmark for satellite sustainability, combining state-of-the-art engineering with practical design. As the space industry navigates the growing challenges posed by orbital debris, innovations like this docking plate are vital to securing the long-term usability of the space environment.