Honda R&D Co., Ltd., the research arm of Honda Motor Co., Ltd., is partnering with Astroscale Japan Inc. to co-develop a refueling port connecting system for on-orbit satellite refueling. Leveraging its advanced mechatronics expertise from robotics research, Honda aims to integrate the system with Astroscale’s RPOD (Rendezvous, Proximity Operations, and Docking) technology.
The joint effort is geared toward supporting Astroscale’s planned satellite refueling technology demonstration in low Earth orbit, scheduled for around 2029.
Earth’s orbits are becoming increasingly congested due to the growing number of satellites and space debris, raising concerns that it may become difficult to sustainably use those orbits in the long term if no proactive measures are taken. To address this issue and achieve space sustainability, it is critical to move away from the traditional satellites and rockets developed for single use and establish a circular space economy based on the principles of “Reduce, Reuse, Repair, Refuel and Remove.” To this end, providing on-orbit services for satellites is considered one of the solutions.
The two companies will co-develop a refueling port connecting system particularly for on-orbit satellite refueling, one of the key on-orbit services to enhance space sustainability. When on-orbit refueling becomes possible, it will extend the life of satellites and reduce both the number of satellites and the number of satellite launches. Moreover, by eliminating fuel constraints through refueling, satellites will gain greater range of missions and flexibility, enabling new ways of utilizing satellites.
Honda R&D has been researching and developing robotics technologies that enable people to transcend various constraints such as time, place and human abilities and to augment people’s possibilities. Assuming that the range of human activities will expand into outer space in the future, Honda will strive to utilize its robotics technologies in various situations in outer space, such as applications of its remotely controlled robots on the lunar surface. For such applications, the technologies must function reliably even in the harsh environment of outer space. Co-developing the refueling port connecting system with Astroscale, the global market leader in on-orbit satellite servicing, will become the first step Honda takes toward acquiring technology that is practical for use in outer space.
Keiji Otsu, President of Honda R&D Co., Ltd., on the Collaboration with Astroscale: “Honda has long delivered mobility solutions across land, water, and air. Now, we’re taking on the next frontier—space. Through our partnership with Astroscale to co-develop a satellite refueling port connection system, we aim to support space sustainability while enhancing people’s lives. The technologies we develop through this initiative will also strengthen our broader space R&D efforts, enabling Honda to contribute meaningfully to future space missions worldwide.”
