D-Orbit is the first in-space transportation company specializing in the precise deployment and removal of satellites using advanced orbital transfer vehicles. The company addresses the challenges of satellite maneuverability and end-of-life disposal, enhancing the sustainability of space operations.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
+4Founders
Product
Problem
Small satellite operators face challenges in achieving precise orbital deployment and timely end-of-life disposal, impacting mission efficiency and contributing to space debris. Traditional rideshare launches often lack the accuracy needed for optimal satellite placement, while the absence of active deorbiting mechanisms increases the risk of collisions and orbital congestion.
Solution
D-Orbit provides comprehensive in-space transportation and logistics solutions, addressing critical needs in satellite deployment, hosted payload operations, and active debris removal. The core of their offering is the ION Satellite Carrier, an orbital transfer vehicle (OTV) capable of precisely delivering satellites to their designated orbits, regardless of launch constraints. ION also facilitates in-orbit demonstration (IOD) services for testing new space technologies and offers hosted payload services. Furthermore, D-Orbit is developing in-orbit servicing capabilities, including robotic spacecraft for satellite life extension, repair, and responsible end-of-life disposal, promoting a sustainable space environment.
Target Audience
D-Orbit serves small satellite manufacturers and operators, space agencies, and institutions seeking reliable and precise in-space transportation, deployment, and end-of-life solutions, as well as organizations looking to test and validate new space technologies.
Features
- ION Satellite Carrier: A versatile OTV for precise satellite deployment, phasing for constellations, and hosted payload operations.
- Rideshare Launch Services: Utilizing third-party launchers with proprietary dispensers for cost-effective deployment into standard parking orbits.
- Advanced Services: Including hosted payload services for in-orbit demonstration and testing, and space cloud services for in-space data processing.
- In-Orbit Servicing (GEA): Robotic spacecraft for rendezvous, capture, inspection, repair, repositioning, and disposal of satellites.
- Mission Control Software (Aurora): Cloud-based MCS suite providing telemetry, telecommand, and orbit visualization with customizable user interface.
- Systems and Components: Modular AOCS suite, multi-sensor ADCS module (D-Sense), onboard computers (OBC Core, IA Core, Simba), decommissioning device (D3), and propulsion system (D-Raise).
- Deorbiting Kit: Independent, smart rocket motor optimized for decommissioning maneuvers.