LOXSAT is a NASA funded cryogenic fluid management demonstration satellite mission. Eta Space is building the payload.[1][2] LOXSAT aims to demonstrate on-orbit docking and cryogenic refueling operations using a cryogenic fluid transfer disconnect and latching mechanism developed for depot applications. It will also demonstrate repeated mating/de-mating and the transfer of liquid oxygen.[3][4] LOXSAT will demonstrate technologies for Eta's cryogenic propellant depot "Cryo-Dock", planned for deployment by 2030.[5][6][7] It is scheduled to launch no earlier than 17 July 2026 on a Rocket Lab Electron launch vehicle.[8] The follow-up LOXSAT2 mission, a full-scale operational depot, is being defined.[2]

See also

References

  1. ↑ "Assembly Underway on Eta Space's LOXSAT". Eta Space (Press release). 23 June 2023. Retrieved 21 November 2023 – via EIN PressWire.
  2. 1 2 "NASA Awards Eta Space Contract for Gas Stations in Space". Eta Space (Press release). 29 April 2021. Retrieved 30 April 2021 – via EIN Presswire.
  3. ↑ "Altius Space Machines to support of Eta Space and NASA's LOXSAT Cryogenic Fluid Management Mission" (Press release). 25 Aug 2021.
  4. ↑ "LOXSAT 1". Gunter's Space Page. Retrieved 2025-01-01.
  5. ↑ Kuper, Stephen (2025-10-23). "Rocket Lab completes spacecraft for NASA cryogenic fuel mission with Eta Space". Space Connect. Retrieved 2026-01-03.
  6. ↑ "LOXSAT Payload Rolls Out to KSC for Testing". Eta Space (Press release). 22 October 2024. Retrieved 23 October 2024 – via EIN PressWire.
  7. ↑ O'Malley, James (26 May 2022). "Play it cool: This company is building a cryogenic gas station in space". Inverse Daily. Archived from the original on 31 October 2022. Retrieved 27 May 2022.
  8. ↑ Boyette, Daniel (14 May 2026). "NASA, Industry Prepare Cryogenic Fuel Technology Demo". NASA. Retrieved 16 May 2026.
source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LOXSAT