Beyond Earth

Technical Considerations for Serviceable Spacecraft

A satellite with solar panels orbits above Earth with a sunset and starry sky in the background.

Sustainability in space is a challenge that requires practical solutions. More launches, space debris, and the environmental cost of repeated satellite replacement are forcing the sector to reconsider how spacecraft are designed, operated, and retired.

Our ‘Technical Considerations for Serviceable Spacecraft’ report explores how serviceability can address this challenge while strengthening commercial and operational outcomes. It highlights the role of modular architectures, autonomous servicing, and in-orbit capabilities in enabling satellites to be repaired, refuelled, and upgraded rather than discarded.

Drawing on real mission examples and current technology readiness, the report details the engineering, software, robotics, and standards required to make serviceable spacecraft viable at scale, and explains why designing for serviceability must now be a core consideration rather than a future option. The findings show that serviceable spacecraft can deliver long term cost efficiency, improved mission assurance, and a more sustainable orbital environment, while opening the door to new business models and capabilities across civil, commercial, and defence missions.

A satellite with solar panels orbits Earth above city lights, with conference details overlaid on the image.

Satellite Applications Catapult

+44 (0)1235 567999

marketing@sa.catapult.org.uk

We help organisations make use of, and benefit from, satellite technologies, and bring together multi-disciplinary teams to generate ideas and solutions in an open innovation environment.