A rendering of an Astroscale Prototype Servicer for Refueling. Photo: Astroscale US

Astroscale Japan will develop in-space refueling technologies under a new program with the Japanese government, the “Key and Advanced Technology R&D through Cross Community Collaboration Program” (K Program), the company announced Jan. 22.

Japan’s Cabinet Office and the Japan Science and Technology Agency lead the K Program. The program’s purpose is to support the research and development of technologies for Japan’s global competitiveness. 

Astrocale plans to leverage its rendezvous and proximity operations technologies to demonstrate chemical refueling for satellites in Low-Earth Orbit (LEO). The project will also conduct ground verification for various propellants, focusing on Geostationary Orbit (GEO) and refueling solutions for electric propulsion systems. 

The project will span five years with a total budget of up to 12 billion yen ($77 million). 

Astroscale stated that refueling plays a role in the company’s “reduce, reuse, repair, refuel and remove” approach to orbital sustainability by extending satellite lifetimes and reducing the need for new launches. 

Astroscale continues its efforts on in-space refueling through different contracts. The company previously announced partnerships with the U.S. Space Force, the UK Space Agency (UKSA) and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).