The Pentagon’s Space Policy Office is crafting a strategy to take advantage of emerging technologies for national and international security purposes. One particularly exciting area of interest is in-space logistics services such as satellite refueling. This proactive approach combined with the advancement of in-space technologies is sure to open new doors of potential for the Pentagon and revolutionize the way the government uses and manages national security-related activities.
In the modern day, satellites have become essential components of our daily lives. Anyone with access to an internet connection can now take part in a global conversation, take part in video conferencing, and transfer data between members of far-flung networks with relative ease. To ensure that these networks and data transfers remain functional and secure, satellites must remain operational. In the past, satellites relied on their limited onboard fuel to stay in orbit, however with the development and advancement in-space logistics services, such as refueling, this does not have to be the case.
Satellites that are equipped with specialized fuel tanks and robotic or remote controlled fuel transfer mechanisms can have an indefinite life expectancy in orbit and can be positioned to remain in the geographic region of interest for as long as necessary. Not only does this reduce the cost associated with replacing old satellites, but it also allows the government to more efficiently manage their satellite networks. Fueling satellites in orbit, rather than waiting to replace them, could then save the government money and many resources.
In addition to eliminating the need for new satellite launches, the use of in-space refueling would also enable the Pentagon to better take advantage of new, emerging technologies instead of waiting for a new generation of satellites to launch. For example, satellite lasers can allow a single operator in one control room to coordinate multiple satellites, whereas traditional satellite systems need dedicated personnel and control rooms for each satellite. This can reduce the operational costs associated with managing a fleet of satellites.
The approach of the Pentagon’s Space Policy Office to take advantage of emerging technologies to better manage and utilize satellite fleets is a proactive step forwards for the defense and security of the United States. By utilizing in-space logistics services such as refueling and taking advantage of new technology, the Pentagon can increase the efficiency and performance of its satellite fleets while reducing overall costs. This is sure to benefit the government in both international security endeavors and civilian operations and technology.
The Pentagon has taken their first step towards utilizing in-space logistics and other emerging technologies, and is sure to continue to innovate and improve their space policy to remain at the forefront of national security operations. As the space industry continues to grow at an increasingly fast rate, in-space logistics are sure to be an integral part of any successful program. It is exciting to think of what future applications for in-space logistics will arise and be used in the pursuit of national security.
