Cape Canaveral, Florida – NASA has decided to scrap a costly and long-delayed mission aimed at showcasing robotic satellite servicing technology in space. The project, known as the On-orbit Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing 1 mission (OSAM-1), had already consumed $1.5 billion in funds, with projections indicating it would require nearly another $1 billion to reach the launch stage.
Initially focused on a simple refueling demonstration, the scope of the OSAM-1 mission expanded over the years to include in-orbit assembly objectives. This ambitious plan involved deploying a 16-foot robotic arm called the Space Infrastructure Dexterous Robot (SPIDER) to construct a Ka-band communications antenna by assembling seven structural elements.
Despite continuous financial and technical challenges, the project had strong support from Congress and NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Maryland. However, delays and cost overruns plagued the mission, causing its budget to balloon far beyond initial estimates. An independent review board estimated that the total cost of the OSAM-1 mission could reach $2.35 billion.
As the landscape of satellite servicing technology evolves, NASA’s decision to cancel the mission reflects a shifting focus within the industry. Commercial companies are now exploring alternative methods to extend satellite lifespans without the need for complex refueling operations. These new approaches include the development of maneuverable vehicles that can latch onto satellites and provide propulsion capabilities, as well as the establishment of in-orbit fuel depots for regular satellite servicing.
With the cancellation of the OSAM-1 mission, NASA acknowledges the changing demands and capabilities of the satellite industry. The decision to abandon the project highlights the importance of adapting to new technologies and market trends in order to meet the evolving needs of space exploration and satellite operations.