The US Space Force has developed a concept to extend the life of old space satellites that are depleting their fuel resources. The idea is based on attaching small propulsion systems to devices that the military department calls “jetpacks”. This was reported by oppression Breaking the Defense.
Prototypes of such engines were presented at a conference on space technology held in Orlando, Florida.
According to representatives of the US Space Force, the modern approach to ensuring the operation of orbiters has not changed since the beginning of the era of exploration of near-Earth space. Today it is outdated and very wasteful.
Other options being considered include refueling satellites, which remain operational for now.
The U.S. Space Force’s Space Systems Logistics Command recently signed a contract with military industrial company Northrop Grumman for the launch of a new passive refueling module (PRM). In this regard, the PRM project was chosen as the standard in technology development.
Previously Pentagon stated About Elon Musk’s intention to use the SpaceX Starship spacecraft in military operations.