Honda to Co-develop Refueling Port Connecting System with Astroscale for On-Orbit Satellite Refueling
TOKYO, MAY 30, 2025 – (JCN Newswire), – Honda R&D Co., Ltd. (“Honda”), a research-and-development subsidiary of Honda Motor Co., Ltd., is co-developing a refueling-port connecting system for on-orbit satellite
Earth’s orbits are becoming more congested as a result of the increasing number of satellites. This is raising concerns that the orbits may not be able to be used sustainably in the future if proactive measures are not taken. In order to address this issue and achieve sustainability in space, it is important to move away from traditional satellites and space rockets that are designed for single-use and establish a circle space economy based upon the principles “Reduce Reuse, Repair Refuel and Remove”. To this end, satellite on-orbit service is considered as one of the solutions.
Two companies will jointly develop a refueling system connecting port, specifically for on-orbit refueling satellites. This is one of the key services on-orbit to improve space sustainability. On-orbit refueling will increase the lifespan of satellites, and reduce the number of satellites launched and the number satellites. By eliminating fuel constraints, satellites can be used for a wider range of missions, and with greater flexibility. Honda R&D is researching and developing robotics technology that allows people to transcend constraints such as time and place, and human abilities. This will enhance people’s capabilities. Honda will use its robotics technology in various outer space situations, such as the application of its remotely controlled robots to the lunar surface, assuming that human activities will expand in the future. The technologies must be able to function reliably in the harsh environment that is outer space. Honda will take the first step towards acquiring technology for outer space by co-developing a refueling port system with Astroscale, a global leader in satellite servicing on orbit.
Keiji Otsu, president and representative director of Honda R&D Co., Ltd. As our next frontier we will take on the challenges of outer space, and strive to provide value that makes peoples’ daily lives more enjoyable. Honda will contribute to the sustainability of space through the co-development with Astroscale of this refueling ports connection system. We will also apply the practical technologies that we gain from this co-development in our ongoing research and development to ensure that Honda technologies contribute to the success for many space missions around world.
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