LOXSAT explained

LOXSAT is a NASA funded cryogenic fluid management demonstration satellite mission. Eta Space is building the payload.^{[1] [2]}

It is scheduled to launch no earlier than late 2025 on a Rocket Lab Electron launch vehicle.^[3]

Mission objectives

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.^[4]

A LOXSAT2 mission is being defined.^[2]

LOXSAT1 will test technology for Eta's orbital depot "CryoDock".^[5]

See also

• Robotic Refueling Mission
• Propellant depot

Notes and References

1. Assembly Underway on Eta Space's LOXSAT . Eta Space . 23 June 2023 . 21 November 2023 . EIN PressWire.
2. NASA Awards Eta Space Contract for Gas Stations in Space . Eta Space . 29 April 2021 . 30 April 2021 . EIN Presswire.
3. LOXSAT Payload Rolls Out to KSC for Testing . Eta Space . 22 October 2024 . 23 October 2024 . EIN PressWire.
4. Altius Space Machines to support of Eta Space and NASA's LOXSAT Cryogenic Fluid Management Mission. 25 Aug 2021 .
5. Web site: PLAY IT COOL: THIS COMPANY IS BUILDING A CRYOGENIC GAS STATION IN SPACE May 2022 . 2022-05-27 . 2022-10-31 . https://web.archive.org/web/20221031124627/https://assets.bdg.com/newsletters/3148.html . dead .