B. On-Orbit Services Space Logistics Innovation through RPOD, On Orbit Refueling, and Autonomous Technologies

Sustainable development of space activities requires safe and efficient on-orbit services and transportation infrastructure. This research aims to drive innovation in space logistics by leveraging flexible rendezvous, proximity operations, and docking (RPOD) with on-orbit refueling as core enabling technologies, opening new modes of on-orbit logistics and services.

Significance of the Research

Contributes to addressing the space debris problem and expands the safe, sustainable use of the orbital environment.
Promotes the commercial deployment of on-orbit services by private-sector operators, strengthening international competitiveness.
Over the long term, it establishes a logistics infrastructure in space to sustain the development of exploration, utilization, and industrial activities beyond Earth.

SATellite Dynamics test platform for on-orbit servicing technology (SATDyn)

Research Objectives

To establish advanced rendezvous and proximity operations (RPO) technologies for both cooperative and non-cooperative targets, supporting space debris removal and satellite servicing. For cooperative targets in particular, the research aims to achieve higher levels of autonomy through standardized interfaces and to promote the dissemination of RPO technologies among domestic stakeholders.
To develop evaluation methodologies and foundational technologies for on-orbit propellant refueling systems, thereby promoting their commercial use.
To acquire key enabling technologies, such as weight reduction and extended operational lifetime, required for reusable inter-orbital transfer vehicles, supporting future space transportation networks.