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In-Orbit Servicing and Manufacturing
Location: Westcott Space Cluster
Accessing space has never been easier.
The Catapult’s Access to Space team is leading our In-Orbit Servicing and Manufacturing capabilities with experts in the areas of robotics, manufacturing, in-orbit operations, and much more. We are keen to work with you on developing your in-space products, services, and solutions, through our knowledge and experience as well as specialist facilities and equipment.
We are currently expanding our physical capabilities, which includes a new, purpose-built facility to verify, validate and demonstrate future in-orbit operations including manufacturing, servicing, inspection, repair, and assembly. The key features of this facility are state-of-the-art in-orbit simulation robots complete with digital twin capabilities, and the metal additive manufacturing and 3D printing machines.
Alongside the technical equipment, the IOSM Facility has collaboration spaces and product development labs, and will continually be developed to be the ideal place for you to innovate, test, and develop your commercial solutions. It is located in a brand new building within the Westcott Space Cluster on Westcott Venture Park, Buckinghamshire, situated close to the Catapult’s Innovation Centre and Future Networks Development Centre.
We are looking forward to inviting you to use this centre to develop and test your new on the ground technologies (such as rocket engines), in-orbit systems (e.g. new flight solutions), and beyond Earth (such Lunar technologies).
Capabilities
IOSM Yard
The IOSM Yard is a state-of-the-art facility for testing close-proximity operations and in-orbit servicing technologies. The facility provides users with a dynamic platform to validate their technologies prior to launch using robotic equipment to simulate a microgravity environment.
MetalFAB1 Additive Manufacturing System
Additive manufacturing allows the creation of complex geometries and strong and lightweight parts in a cost-effective way. This technology is especially useful for rocket engines development for in space propulsion.
The Satellite Applications Catapult continues to remove the barriers to growth for the UK Space Industry by making this technology available to companies on a pay-as-you-go basis, working with the Catapult’s Manufacturing for Space team.
Manufacturing Equipment
Granite Table
Digital readout vertical dial gauge stand
Induction bearing heater (press fits)
Hydraulic Press
LC Magna 3D Printer
Laser Cutter - Boxford BML1390
Ultrasonic Cleaner
Water Jet Cutter
Resin 3D printer: Form3
Polymer 3D Printer - Ultimaker S5
Helium Leak Detector
FARO Measurement Arm
High-Speed Camera
Thermal Camera
We want to work with you
Serving your needs to create your innovation for an economy beyond earth