Orbit Fab and Thales Alenia Space have initiated a joint study to define how in-orbit refueling could be integrated into the design of all-electric telecommunications satellites, particularly in geostationary orbit. The objective is to make future Thales Alenia Space platforms compatible with Orbit Fab’s orbital propellant depots, enabling refueling during a satellite’s operational life instead of relying solely on onboard propellant reserves.
The study focuses on technical and architectural aspects, including mechanical and fluid interfaces between the satellite and the refueling system, the choice of propellants for electric propulsion, and mission scenarios for rendezvous and refueling. It also examines the impact on overall spacecraft design, such as propulsion system architecture, mass budget, redundancy and cost.
Thales Alenia Space is a key European player in all-electric platforms, having developed geostationary telecom satellites using Hall-effect thrusters and fully electric product lines. In parallel, the global market for electric propulsion satellites is growing rapidly, with strong demand for more flexible and efficient missions. In-orbit services such as inspection, refueling, life-extension and active debris removal are emerging as a new segment, and the Orbit Fab–Thales Alenia Space collaboration positions both companies within this broader shift toward service-based operations in orbit.