Orbital Lasers and InspeCity have signed a MoU to collaborate on laser-mounted satellite development for ISAM solutions

December 17, 2024

Orbital Lasers Co., Ltd. and InspeCity Space Laboratories Pvt. Ltd. have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to explore collaborative opportunities in developing In-Space Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing (ISAM) solutions that promote space sustainability.

The In-Orbit Services market is poised for significant growth, projected to surpass $14.3 billion by 2031, according to Northern Sky Research's "5th IOSM" report. This expansion is driven by critical services such as satellite life extension, orbital debris mitigation, and advanced satellite servicing solutions, addressing the growing demand for cost-effective and sustainable space operations. By maximizing the utility of existing space assets, ISAM technologies minimize the costs and risks associated with launching new satellites while aligning with global sustainability goals. Scalable innovations, such as laser-based detumbling, further enhance the safety and efficiency of orbital operations, supporting applications like satellite servicing, debris removal, and in-orbit assembly.

Figure 1: InspeCity's Life extension platform VEDA (Vehicle for Life Extension and Deorbiting Activities) is a culmination of the best technologies in Propulsion, Robotics, and RPO Laser-based detumbling is an innovative technology with the potential to revolutionize the expanding ISAM sector. This cutting-edge solution uses high-power laser systems to precisely stabilize cooperative and non-cooperative objects, such as tumbling satellites or debris, without physical contact. By reducing mission complexity, volume, and mass, laser detumbling simplifies operations and enhances safety, making it an ideal solution for sustainable orbital activities. It is particularly effective in addressing challenges posed by the growing number of satellites in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO), which offer satellite servicing and debris management opportunities.

Figure 2: Laser Ablation for Space Debris Removal by Orbital Lasers

Addressing these challenges, OLC and InspeCity are leading advancements in space sustainability. InspeCity leverages its expertise in propulsion systems, robotics, and Rendezvous, Proximity Operations, and Docking (RPOD) technologies to extend satellite lifespans and reduce the need for additional launches and space debris. 

Figure 3: Mission ConOps, InspeCity's VEDA platform augmented with OLC's laser detumbling system to remove a defunct satellite.

OLC complements this with its non-invasive, contactless, cost-effective and scalable laser detumbling technology, which adjusts the stabilize cooperative and non-cooperative objects, such as tumbling satellites or debris, for controlled deorbiting. Together, these innovations promote a circular economy in orbit.

With this understanding, OLC and InspeCity signed a MoU to establish and develop business opportunities in ISAM. Both parties will explore various market development strategies, which include joint market exploration and technical studies to ensure the successful integration of their technologies. This will involve the development of a Concept of Operation (ConOps) and a regulatory study that addresses the legal frameworks in both India and Japan, as well as the regulatory landscapes of their targeted markets and projects. This collaboration will focus on compliance efforts and information exchange to ensure that all regulatory challenges are understood and addressed, facilitating the smooth execution of proposed business activities. 

MOU signed at the Orbital Lasers Office in Tokyo, Representatives from InspeCity (left) and Orbital Lasers (right) 

The MoU was signed by Mr. Tadanori Fukushima, Representative Director and CEO of OLC, and Prof. Arindrajit Chowdhury, CEO of InspeCity. The signing took place online and at OLC's Tokyo office, in the presence of representatives from InspeCity.

Mr. Tadanori Fukushima, Representative Director and CEO of Orbital Lasers, added: " We are excited to announce our partnership with InspeCity, a leader in India for ISAM innovation. This collaboration represents a significant milestone, uniting Japan and India in a private space alliance to advance space technology. By combining InspeCity's expertise with OLC’s advanced laser systems, we aim to revolutionize orbital operations and deliver cutting-edge solutions from Asia to the world."

Prof. Arindrajit Chowdhury, CEO, InspeCity, noted: "Our collaboration with Orbital Lasers represents a significant step toward achieving more sustainable and efficient space operations. The integration of cutting-edge laser technologies with our ISAM systems has the potential to redefine in-orbit life extension."