The In-Space Proof-of-Concepts (InSPoCs) incremental demonstrations being implemented by ESA Space Transportation will de-risk space transportation capabilities and foster shared interfaces in support of ISOS’s logistics and host pillars, moving, operating and refilling spacecraft. In parallel, ESA Space Transportation accompanies development of orbital transfer and demonstration vehicles including Astris, RAVEN and Space Rider.

ESA Space Safety is playing a key role in this effort through its Active Debris Removal and In-Orbit Servicing (ADRIOS) cornerstone missions. These missions are opening new markets for European industry while fostering sustainability and developing an in-space circular economy.

ESA’s ClearSpace-1 will be the first to remove an unprepared piece of debris from orbit, demonstrating critical technologies such as relative navigation and close-proximity operations. The Agency’s CAT mission will test capture and removal interfaces, simplifying future servicing and debris removal operations. And Rise will demonstrate commercial in-orbit servicing by rendezvousing with a geostationary satellite and extending its operational lifetime.

Together, these missions are already building essential European capabilities for in-space operations and services.