TDB-DST SUPPORTS ORBITAID AEROSPACE PVT. LTD. FOR DEVELOPMENT OF INDIGENOUS ON-ORBIT SATELLITE DOCKING AND REFUELING TECHNOLOGY
TDB-DST SUPPORTS ORBITAID AEROSPACE PVT. LTD. FOR DEVELOPMENT OF INDIGENOUS ON-ORBIT SATELLITE DOCKING AND REFUELING TECHNOLOGY
In a significant step towards strengthening India’s emerging private space ecosystem, the Technology Development Board (TDB), Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India, has extended financial assistance to OrbitAID Aerospace Private Limited for the project titled “Development of Docking and Refueling Systems for In-Space Life Extension of Satellites.” The initiative aligns with the Government of India’s vision of enabling greater participation of private industry in the space sector and fostering indigenous capabilities in advanced space technologies.
OrbitAID Aerospace Private Limited is developing advanced on-orbit satellite servicing capabilities, including technologies for refueling operational satellites in space. Such capabilities are increasingly important as the number of satellites in orbit grows rapidly, creating both opportunities and challenges related to space congestion, satellite lifecycle management, and sustainable space operations.
A key innovation under the project is the Standard Interface Docking and Refueling Port (SIDRP)—a Technology Readiness Level (TRL-7) system designed to enable autonomous docking and propellant transfer between satellites in orbit. The system integrates a satellite fill-and-drain valve with a dual docking interface and is engineered to operate reliably in both ground and microgravity environments.
SIDRP incorporates advanced engineering features including autonomous docking capability, dual docking mechanisms, and multiple built-in redundancies to ensure safe and reliable propellant transfer. The system allows a servicing satellite module to approach and dock with a client satellite, enabling in-orbit refueling that can significantly extend the operational life of satellites at a fraction of the cost required for launching replacement spacecraft.
During operations, the OrbitAID Service Module approaches the target satellite using advanced guidance, navigation, and control systems supported by LiDAR, optical, and infrared sensors. Once in proximity, the docking interface enables soft capture followed by secure latching and safe propellant transfer to replenish the satellite’s fuel reserves.
With financial support from TDB, the project will focus on further development, testing, and demonstration of the SIDRP system in space, paving the way for the establishment of an indigenous on-orbit servicing ecosystem in India. The initiative is expected to open new opportunities for satellite life-extension services, enhance operational efficiency for satellite operators, and contribute to sustainable space infrastructure.
Speaking on the occasion, Sh. Rajesh Kumar Pathak, Secretary, TDB, stated that “India’s space sector has entered a transformative phase under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister, with reforms encouraging private enterprise and innovation. He noted that technologies such as on-orbit servicing and satellite life-extension systems represent the next frontier of commercial space activities, and reaffirmed TDB’s commitment to supporting Indian startups developing advanced space technologies that strengthen India’s global competitiveness and technological self-reliance.”
Promoters of OrbitAID Aerospace Private Limited expressed appreciation for the support extended by TDB and noted that the assistance will help accelerate the development, testing, and in-space demonstration of the docking and refueling system, positioning the company to contribute to India’s rapidly expanding space innovation ecosystem.
