US to construct space facility for refueling military satellites enhancing orbital operability

The Space Systems Command (SSC) of America has chosen a solution that enables military satellites to refill their fuel reserves while in Earth's orbit.

The victorious proposal was presented by Northrop Grumman, featuring a space distributor design. Satellites will have the capability to draw fuel through a new kind of standard connector, the Passive Refueling Module (PRM), which is shared by all satellites administered by the SSC.

Signifying the standard interface will promote uniformity, enabling various manufacturers to build space gear that can utilize the SSC's orbital infrastructure. Why is SSC's decision so crucial?

In doing this, the Americans are tackling a core issue that restricts the operational feasibility of satellites in Earth's orbit. While most such objects maintain static orbits, utilizing propulsion primarily for position adjustment, military satellites need to be maneuverable—for example, to get close to another satellite, hijack data, or cause physical disruption.

The challenge here is that maneuvers swiftly use up fuel reserves. Without fuel, continued effective operation is not feasible, and an expensive satellite becomes one-time equipment. This is especially concerning given the nature of the fuel used—usually the dangerous and toxic hydrazine.

Hence, the SSC is focusing on constructing a space facility that allows for the safe storage of fuel reserves for satellites operating in geosynchronous orbits.

The contract to design a project for a facility named the Geosynchronous Auxiliary Support Tanker (GAS-T) has been awarded to Northrop Grumman. The space fuel station is expected to accommodate approximately 2,205 pounds of hydrazine in orbit and provide servicing, thereby lengthening the satellite’s life span.