TOKYO, Japan, May 30, 2025 – Honda R&D Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of Honda Motor Co., Ltd., has announced a partnership with Astroscale Japan Inc. to co-develop a refueling port connecting system for on-orbit satellite refueling. The system will be integrated with Astroscale's RPOD (rendezvous, proximity operations, and docking) technology and is expected to be demonstrated in low Earth orbit around 2029.
With the increasing congestion in Earth's orbits due to satellites and space debris, sustainable space utilization is at risk. The collaboration aims to establish a circular space economy by enabling satellite refueling, which can extend satellite lifespans, reduce launches, and enhance mission flexibility.
Honda will leverage its robotics expertise to ensure the system functions reliably in space. This initiative marks Honda's first step toward practical space applications, including potential lunar surface robotics.
