The UK Space Agency has opened a spacecraft life-extension study competition with an estimated value of £2.1 million excluding VAT. Published on October 30, 2026, the tender seeks approximately three early-stage studies of potential missions that would approach and dock with a cooperative or prepared satellite.
The procurement notice advances an initiative first outlined in a planning notice on October 19. The agency is commissioning mission concepts for an in-orbit demonstration of rendezvous, proximity operations, and docking, commonly abbreviated as RPOD.
These operations bring two spacecraft together through progressively closer and more controlled movement. Rendezvous establishes their relative position and motion; proximity operations manage the close approach; docking creates a mechanical connection. A prepared client spacecraft provides the intended target for the servicing vehicle’s approach and attachment.
The studies will compare options for the client satellite, servicing spacecraft, launch arrangements, mission operations, and ground systems. Their scope includes potential services such as refueling, relocation, repair, component replacement, and takeover of attitude and orbit control.
Attitude control determines where a spacecraft points, while orbit control changes or maintains its trajectory. In a satellite life-extension service, an attached servicing vehicle can supply these functions so that the client can continue operating.
The competition funds feasibility research for a possible demonstration. Its planned study period runs from January 4 to June 15, 2027.
An optional bidder-engagement event is scheduled for November 6 at Harwell Campus. Tender submissions are due by 13:00 UK time on November 27, 2026.
