What Does the Future of In-Orbit Servicing Look Like?

As the space industry moves toward more sustainable and economically efficient practices, in-orbit servicing (IOS) is emerging as a game-changer. From extending satellite lifespans to debris mitigation and repositioning missions, IOS—particularly through space tug technology—promises to transform the way we manage assets in space.

The Problem with a One-Way Ticket

Traditionally, satellites have been launched with a single-use mindset. Once their fuel runs out or a component fails, they are either deorbited or become space debris, adding to the ever-growing congestion in low Earth orbit (LEO) and beyond. With more than 8,000 operational satellites currently orbiting Earth - and thousands more planned in the coming years - the need for a better solution is becoming urgent.

Enter the Space Tug

A space tug is a reusable vehicle designed to move payloads from one orbit to another, reposition satellites, or even refuel and repair them in orbit. Think of it as a versatile orbital taxi service, capable of providing a range of services to different clients and platforms.

Space tugs are already moving beyond the concept stage. Several private and public players - including Skyrora with our Space Tug concept - are working toward operational capabilities in the near future. These systems could be launched into LEO and then maneuver to various orbits to complete their missions, using advanced propulsion and AI-powered navigation.

Servicing, Refueling, and Recycling

The core appeal of in-orbit servicing lies in its potential to extend the lifecycle of existing space assets. Rather than launching an entirely new satellite to replace one that’s merely low on fuel, IOS vehicles could refuel satellites in situ. In some cases, robotic systems could even replace faulty components, restoring partial or full functionality.

Additionally, in-orbit servicing could enable orbital recycling, where decommissioned satellites are harvested for parts or repurposed entirely. This could open up new pathways for circular economy practices in space, reducing both cost and waste.

Clearing the Cosmic Clutter

One of the most talked-about applications of space tug systems is active debris removal (ADR). A multifunctional tug could latch onto defunct satellites or debris fragments and safely deorbit them, reducing the risk of collisions that could threaten both crewed and uncrewed missions. This is especially important in the context of space traffic management, which is becoming a focal point of space policy discussions globally.

What's Next?

To make in-orbit servicing a widespread reality, several challenges still need to be addressed:

The good news is that progress is well underway. The UK space sector, in particular, is playing a growing role in supporting in-orbit servicing initiatives, through government-led innovation funds and collaborations with emerging tech providers.

A Future-Ready Workforce

For university students and young professionals in aerospace, robotics, software engineering, and space policy, the rise of in-orbit servicing offers new career paths and research opportunities. Whether it’s designing modular satellites, programming AI guidance systems, or shaping space governance, the next generation of talent will be instrumental in making IOS scalable and sustainable.

At Skyrora, we believe the future of space isn’t just about reaching farther, it’s about managing what we’ve already launched more intelligently. The Space Tug is more than a concept; it’s a critical tool in our shared mission to build a responsible, resilient space ecosystem.