Orbit Fab

Today’s space missions are limited by a “launch-it-once, use-it-once” model. For national security operators, the inability to maneuver in response to an adversary's actions (or to preempt them) means our assets will be out-run, out-maneuvered, out or positions, and out of the fight. Satellites are launched with a fixed amount of fuel, forcing them to be decommissioned once depleted — even though 85% of satellite are still functional and generating revenue. This creates unnecessary orbital debris, shortens mission lifespans, and drives up replacement costs. As the space economy rapidly expands, particularly in defense, Earth observation, and communications, the inability to refuel assets in orbit has become a major bottleneck to long-term sustainability, operational flexibility, and economic scalability in space.

1. First Commercial Refueling Port in Orbit (RAFTI): Orbit Fab developed and launched the RAFTI (Rapidly Attachable Fluid Transfer Interface) — the first commercially available refueling port for satellites. It’s now being adopted as a de factor standard across government and commercial spacecraft. 2. Government Contracts & Funding: Secured over $35M in government contracts, including from the U.S. Space Force, DARPA, and DIU, for in-space refueling capabilities — validating national interest and strategic importance. 3. DoD Mission Alignment: Orbit Fab’s refueling service directly supports Space Mobility & Logistics (SAML) goals outlined in the DoD’s strategic roadmap, positioning it as a critical enabler of satellite maneuverability and resiliency. 4. First On-Orbit Fuel Depot Scheduled (2026): Orbit Fab is on contract to launch America’s first in-space fuel depot in 2026 and refuel multiple US government satellites, marking a transformational milestone in space logistics.

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  Orbit Fab, Thales Alenia to study refueling for electric-propulsion satellites

  SpaceNews · May 26, 2026

  Orbit Fab, Thales Alenia to study refueling for electric-propulsion satellites