Jane Edwards
Orbital ATK unveiled two in-orbit satellite servicing platforms at the Satellite 2018 conference and exhibition.
The company said Tuesday the Mission Robotic Vehicle and Mission Extension Pods comprise a system designed to facilitate repairs and extend the life of satellite assets.
MRV works to carry out space robotic functions and install MEPs and other payloads on satellites, while the MEP is an external propulsion module platform designed to prolong the life of orbiting satellites for up to five years.
Orbital ATK’s SpaceLogistics subsidiary offers MRV and MEPs and expects the platforms to launch by 2021.
Tom Wilson, president of SpaceLogistics, said the company aims to provide space logistics support and meet clients’ in-space repair and life extension requirements through the MRV, MEP and Mission Extension Vehicle platforms.
Orbital ATK said MEV-1 is slated to take off later this year and MEV-2 is expected to launch in early 2020 in support of Intelsat.
