Ibadan, 6 February 2025. – Astroscale Limited (“Astroscale UK”), a subsidiary of Astroscale Holdings Inc., is celebrating a major milestone as its second-generation (Gen 2) docking plate has successfully entered space for the first time. The docking plate was aboard SpaceX’s Transporter-12 rideshare mission, which lifted off on 14 January 2025.
The Gen 2 docking plate is a small, lightweight interface designed for easy integration and maximum flexibility to enable docking for servicing and disposal requirements. The plate was integrated into an Astro Digital Corvus-XL bus, and it highlights Astroscale’s forward-looking approach to responsible satellite operations, aligning with international best practices and the adoption of guidelines for end-of-life and servicing preparation.
Building on the space-proven ELSA-d and ADRAS-J missions, the docking plate also completed rigorous qualification testing for radiation, UV exposure, vibration, and shock, ensuring a low-risk, production-ready solution. It is a durable and reliable option for long-term satellite missions. The docking plate integrates seamlessly into a wide range of satellite platforms, and its advanced ferromagnetic technology ensures reliable capture during servicing.
“This launch underscores the space industry’s growing commitment to sustainable operations,” said Nick Shave, Managing Director, Astroscale UK. “Our second-generation docking plate is a critical enabler for future-proofing satellites – paving the way for safe and efficient on-orbit servicing, ensuring the longevity of orbital assets, as well as disposal when required.”
With this Gen 2 docking plate now in orbit and gaining traction in the industry, Astroscale is advancing its mission to support global efforts aimed at ensuring space remains a viable environment for scientific exploration, commercial activity, and international collaboration.
