Mission Extension Vehicle: Innovations in Satellite Sustainability

6 min readOct 30, 2023

The age of space exploration has heralded an era where humanity is increasingly dependent on satellites for a myriad of applications ranging from telecommunications and weather forecasts to defense and scientific research. As more satellites circle our planet, a crucial question emerges: what happens when these expensive assets run out of fuel or encounter system failures? Mission Extension Vehicle (MEV) present a revolutionary and strategic solution to this growing concern.

The Intricacies of MEVs

Mission Extension Vehicles, also known as MEVs, are specialized robotic spacecraft engineered to dock with aging satellites to prolong their operational lifespan. Unlike conventional spacecraft programmed for specific missions, Mission Extension Vehicles function as “life-support systems” for other satellites. They offer services such as refueling, repair, and even altering the satellite’s orbital position.

Technical Mechanics of Mission Extension Vehicles

A Mission Extension Vehicle is furnished with a unique docking system that allows it to securely latch onto a host satellite. Once linked, the MEV can transfer propellant to the target satellite or employ its thrusters to shift the satellite into alternative orbits. Future iterations of Mission Extension Vehicles might also be capable of carrying out minor repairs or substituting defective modules.

The interaction between a Mission Extension Vehicle and its host satellite is a carefully choreographed dance, executed with pinpoint accuracy. Utilizing an array of sensors and algorithms, the Mission Extension Vehicle identifies the satellite’s docking port, ensuring that the connection is achieved without causing damage to either spacecraft. Post-docking, the Mission Extension Vehicle assumes the reins of the satellite’s propulsion functions, essentially becoming its new engine and navigational system.

How Does a Mission Extension Vehicle Dock with a Satellite?

The docking procedure for a Mission Extension Vehicle is a highly intricate process that consists of several phases:

Pre-docking Phase:

Preparation: Prior to launch, comprehensive planning, simulations, and calculations are conducted to verify the compatibility between the MEV and the target satellite.
Launch: The Mission Extension Vehicle is catapulted into space aboard a rocket, following a predetermined trajectory to meet with the target satellite.
Rendezvous: The Mission Extension Vehicle gradually nears the target satellite, constantly adjusting its course for precise docking. During this stage, it often maintains constant communication with ground control.

Docking Phase:

Approach: Using onboard thrusters and guidance mechanisms, the Mission Extension Vehicle cautiously approaches the satellite, usually from below to lessen the risk of collision.
Capture: Upon reaching adequate proximity, the MEV initiates the capture sequence, potentially using a robotic arm or specialized docking adapter.
Mechanical Attachment: Specialized clamps or interfaces lock the Mission Extension Vehicle into place, securing its connection to the satellite’s existing propulsion system nozzle or docking port.
Confirmation: Sensors and telemetry data provide confirmation that the docking is secure, relaying this information back to mission control.

Post-docking Phase:

Transfer of Control: Once securely attached, the Mission Extension Vehicle assumes control over the satellite’s propulsion and attitude functionalities.
Operations: The MEV then undertakes the necessary orbital adjustments.
End of Life: Once the mission extension period concludes, the Mission Extension Vehicle either relegates the host satellite to a “graveyard” orbit or moves on to its next mission, contingent on its design and remaining fuel reserves.

Can a Mission Extension Vehicle service multiple satellites?

Absolutely, a Mission Extension Vehicle is engineered for multiple rendezvous. Upon completing its mission with one satellite, the vehicle can undock and navigate to another satellite requiring service. It can perform a diverse array of tasks such as refueling, repositioning, and repair, making it a versatile asset in maintaining the health of our satellite infrastructure.

What Kind of Propulsion System Does a Mission Extension Vehicle Use?

A Mission Extension Vehicle typically utilizes an electric propulsion system, achieving high efficiency and precise control for optimal performance. This propulsion system empowers the MEV to accelerate and expel ions, which in turn creates a thrust to propel the vehicle in space. The benefit of this is twofold: it allows for intricate maneuvers and extends the operational lifespan compared to traditional chemical propulsion systems.

Specific Missions: MEV-1 and MEV-2

MEV-1: Launched in October 2019, MEV-1 successfully docked with Intelsat 901 in February 2020. This was a groundbreaking mission, marking the first time an orbiting satellite had its operational lifespan extended in this manner.
MEV-2: Following the success of MEV-1, MEV-2 was launched in August 2020. It successfully docked with Intelsat 10–02 in April 2021.

These missions have not only demonstrated the technical feasibility of satellite servicing but have also started to establish a commercial marketplace for these kinds of operations.

Economic Implications of Mission Extension Vehicles

Launching satellites is a high-cost endeavor, often running into hundreds of millions of dollars. Adding to the financial burden is the limited operational lifespan of most satellites, generally about 15–20 years due to fuel constraints and mechanical degradation. Mission Extension Vehicles offer a fiscally prudent alternative to the expensive cycle of de-orbiting and launching new satellites.

Given the undeniable economic advantages, commercial entities and governmental agencies are increasingly showing interest in Mission Extension Vehicles. These vehicles not only extend the utility of a single satellite but also contribute to a more sustainable and less congested space environment by decreasing the number of obsolete satellites in orbit.

Ethical and Regulatory Dimensions of Mission Extension Vehicles

Mission Extension Vehicles come with their share of ethical and regulatory challenges. One primary concern is the potential weaponization of Mission Extension Vehicles to alter a satellite’s orbit, thereby raising questions about space warfare and sabotage. Moreover, the lack of clear international regulations surrounding satellite servicing creates a legal ambiguity: who retains ownership of the satellite once a Mission Extension Vehicle has docked with it?

Are there any risks involved in servicing satellites with a mission extension vehicle?

Yes, using a Mission Extension Vehicle to service a satellite involves inherent risks. The docking procedure requires immense precision and there’s always the potential for collision or damage to either the satellite or the MEV. Additionally, the servicing process entails the handling of potentially dangerous materials like fuel, posing risks of contamination.

However, Mission Extension Vehicles are meticulously designed with safety protocols and redundant systems to mitigate these risks. These vehicles undergo rigorous testing and are operated by specialized personnel, further ensuring safety.

Societal Impact of Mission Extension Vehicles

The role of Mission Extension Vehicles extends beyond technical efficacy; they are also societal enablers. For example, a communication satellite’s failure can have severe repercussions on emergency services, financial systems, and national security. Mission Extension Vehicles, by improving satellite longevity, indirectly contribute to societal stability and technological reliability.

Future Prospects of Mission Extension Vehicles

Mission Extension Vehicles could potentially revolutionize satellite servicing. Beyond just refueling and repositioning, future versions could upgrade onboard systems, install new software, or even attach new hardware modules to aging satellites. This opens the door for unprecedented flexibility and sustainability in satellite operations.

Additionally, Mission Extension Vehicles may serve as prototypes for autonomous servicing crafts capable of operating outside Earth’s orbit. Picture a future where robotic spacecraft could be dispatched to repair interplanetary probes or resupply future human missions to other celestial bodies. The technological leaps originating from Mission Extension Vehicles could serve as stepping stones for such transformative ventures.

Conclusion: The Paradigm Shift Brought About by Mission Extension Vehicles

Mission Extension Vehicles are changing the way we think about satellite longevity and sustainability. They represent a more economical and technically robust solution for extending the operational life of high-value satellite assets. While they do present challenges — economic, ethical, and regulatory among them — the societal benefits and exciting future prospects make Mission Extension Vehicles an indispensable technology in the future landscape of satellite operations and space exploration.