13 January 2026 – Astroscale Limited (“Astroscale UK”), a subsidiary of Astroscale Holdings Inc., the global leader in in-orbit servicing, has been awarded a EUR 399,000 (approximately £350,000) Phase A contract by the European Space Agency (ESA) to lead the design of the In-Orbit Refurbishment and Upgrading Service (IRUS), a pioneering mission concept that will enable satellites to be upgraded, repaired, and extended while in orbit. This initiative supports ESA’s Space Safety Programme, reinforcing Europe’s commitment to reducing orbital risks and ensuring safe operations for future generations. With the involvement of the spacecraft manufacturer and operator, BAE Systems, in the role of a future in-orbit servicing client, IRUS represents a major step towards a circular space economy, where satellites are maintained, repaired and enhanced in orbit rather than treated as single-use. Developing this new capability will pave the way for more complex In-Orbit Servicing, Assembly and Manufacturing (ISAM) capabilities – as refurbishment and upgrading are essential precursors to assembling and manufacturing platforms in space. Read more