Starfish Space Aims for First Commercial Satellite Docking in LEO
2025-05-21
Starfish Space's Otter Pup 2 mission aims to achieve the first commercial satellite docking in low Earth orbit (LEO). Unlike previous attempts, the target, a D-Orbit ION spacecraft, lacks a traditional docking adapter. Starfish Space will utilize its Nautilus capture mechanism, employing electrostatic adhesion and a backup electromagnet, for docking. The mission will test the company's autonomous rendezvous and docking software (CETACEAN and CEPHALOPOD) and low-thrust electric propulsion. Success will pave the way for more affordable and efficient satellite servicing, with plans to service customers like NASA, the U.S. Space Force, and Intelsat as early as 2026.