AyulSAT: In-Orbit Satellite Refuelling in India

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)’s PSLV-C62 mission carrying the AyulSAT, India’s first-ever in-orbit satellite refuelling demonstrator,  failed to finish its intended trajectory.

• This milestone would have made India the fourth country to demonstrate in-orbit satellite refuelling.

About AyulSAT

• Created by OrbitAID Aerospace, AyulSAT represents India’s first step toward commercial in-orbit satellite refuelling and servicing.
• Type: Dedicated tanker/technology demonstrator satellite (approximately 25 kg)
• Launch Vehicle: ISRO’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C62), failed to enter into orbit.
• Orbit: Low Earth Orbit (LEO)
• Primary Objective: Demonstrate internal propellant (fuel) transfer, power transfer, and data transfer using OrbitAID’s proprietary Standard Interface for Docking and Refuelling Port (SIDRP).

About Satellite Refuelling (In-Orbit Refuelling)

• Satellite refuelling involves transferring propellant from a servicing spacecraft (tanker or servicer) to a client satellite in space. 
• Process: A servicer (chaser) spacecraft docks with a client satellite using standardized interfaces to transfer fuel, power, or data.
• Strategic Importance: Enables on-orbit servicing, repair, upgrading, and supports long-term space infrastructure (space stations, depots).

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Major Advantages

• Extended Satellite Lifespan: Adds years (often 30-50% or more) by replenishing fuel, delaying replacement launches.
• Cost Savings: Refuelling a satellite is far cheaper than building and launching a new one (hundreds of millions vs. servicing mission costs).
• Reduced Space Debris: Fewer dead satellites contribute to orbital junk; supports sustainability goals like debris-free space.

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