Rapidly Attachable Fluid Transfer Interface Explained

Rapidly Attachable Fluid Transfer Interface (RAFTI) is a standard interface developed by Orbit Fab for transferring fluids, e.g., propellants, in space.^[1] It has been defined by a group of 30 companies.

The interface specification has high and low pressure variants, both for operation between -40 °C and 120 °C.^[2]

• Low pressure : for MMH, UDMH, Water, H₂O₂, Methanol, Kerosene, Green Monoprops, isopropyl alcohol, HFE, N₂O. (fluids)
• High pressure : for Nitrogen, Helium, Xenon, Krypton. (gases)

History - timeline

2020: A first implementation is planned to be tested in space in 2021 as part of a prototype fuel depot.^{[1] [3]}

A free flying orbital demo was launched in June 2021 to test transfers of high-test peroxide.^[4]

In 2024, Orbit Fab announced production ramp up and prices, and that three SpaceForce Tetra 5 satellites would be launched in 2025 with RAFTI interfaces for a refuelling demo in geostationary orbit.^[5]

See also

• Robotic Refueling Mission NASA tests on the ISS (including cryogenic)

Notes and References

1. Web site: Messier. Douglas. November 18, 2020. Orbit Fab to Launch Orbital Fuel Depot Next Year – Parabolic Arc. 2020-11-26. parabolicarc.com. en-US.
2. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5b7da3f1b40b9dda4d808180/t/5e54254e263fa10371744810/1582572908842/RAFTI+Brochure.pdf RAFTI summary
3. https://news.satnews.com/2020/11/16/fill-them-up-in-space-thats-orbit-fabs-plan/ Orbit Fab to Launch Orbital Fuel Depot Next Year
4. https://www.universetoday.com/152518/theres-now-a-gas-station-in-space/ There's Now a Gas Station… In Space! Sept 2021
5. https://spacenews.com/orbit-fab-reveals-price-tag-for-its-satellite-refueling-ports/ Orbit Fab reveals price tag for its satellite refueling ports March 2024