Extending the life of an already in orbit satellite by refueling can cost 35% less than launching a new satellite.

In China, scientists have developed a space fueling apparatus. It will be shown for the first time at the 13th China International Aviation and Space Show (Airshow China 2021).

It is indicated that the device was created by the Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology (SAST) under the China Corporation of Aerospace Science and Technology. It will extend the service life of satellites after refueling.

The space tanker is equipped with a navigation system consisting of radars and cameras. With the assistance of a ground control system, this unit can automatically track and approach the satellite, which sends out a fuel shortage alarm. At a distance of about two meters from the satellite, the unit can dock with the node. refuel with a mechanical arm and complete the fuel transfer, the message says.

The functions of the filling machine were simplified at the design stage in order to load as much fuel as possible. It is capable of transporting up to 1.3 tons of fuel, which is more than half of its own weight.

The developers noted that extending the service life of a geostationary satellite already operating in orbit with the help of this apparatus could cost 35% less than launching a new geostationary satellite.

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