Beyond Earth: Rendezvous Proximity Operations and Docking – Concept of Operations

As space activity grows, so does the need to manage orbital debris and ensure sustainable operations. The rapid growth of satellites and the accumulation of orbital debris pose significant risks to our infrastructure, security, and future ambitions in space. Meeting these challenges requires new frameworks that enable safe, effective, and innovative practices.

The Satellite Applications Catapult is proud to share our latest report, ‘Beyond Earth: Rendezvous Proximity Operations and Docking – Concept of Operations’, written by our Space Segment Lead, Gary Cannon.

This report sets out the methodologies and strategies needed for effective rendezvous and proximity operations and docking (RPOD) and in-orbit servicing, assembly, and manufacturing (ISAM), supporting both sustainability and resilience in space.

The primary objectives outlined in this document include:

1. providing a foundational guide for the methods and approaches required for servicer spacecraft to locate, approach, and dock with target objects in space;
2. explanation of the intricacies of RPOD, ensuring a shared understanding of operational requirements and best practices and
3. encouraging the development of advanced technologies and strategies to facilitate effective servicing and debris removal operations.

It highlights the potential for future missions, including the development of initiatives to address the growing issue of space debris and the implementation of strategies for maintaining and upgrading operational satellites.