Joyce Bulson News Today

"I think the US national security community is going to shape commercial space for the foreseeable future," Carissa Bryce Christensen, CEO of BryceTech, told Breaking Defense.

Los Angeles CA (SPX) May 21, 2024 - Space Systems Command (SSC) awarded Starfish Space a $37.5 million Strategic Funding Increase (STRATFI) contract to develop, launch, and operate an Otter satellite vehicle for a docking mission to p

The Space Force says its partnership with Starfish Space will result in a "first-of-its-kind docking mission" to maneuver U.S. space assets.

Los Angeles CA (SPX) May 21, 2024 - Space Systems Command (SSC) awarded Starfish Space a $37.5 million Strategic Funding Increase (STRATFI) contract to develop, launch, and operate an Otter satellite vehicle for a docking mission to p

Starfish Space to further develop Otter satellite under Space Force contract

In a first-of-its-kind mission, Starfish Space will attach a "jetpack"-like satellite to a U.S. military satellite to give it two years of additional propulsion and maneuverability.

The U.S. Space Force wants industry to invest in on-orbit refueling, but companies say they need standards first.

Looking for the latest Government Contracting News? Read about Space Force Eyes On-Orbit Refueling, Propulsion Systems to Achieve Mobility Goals.

"People need to have a realistic expectation of the demand signal," said Col. Joyce Bulson, who heads Space Systems Command's servicing, mobility and logistics program, stressing that the service is "looking to leverage commercial services to the maximum extent possible, so we're not looking for a significant government investment in bringing these capabilities to bear." 

The launch-ready prototype will be delivered by 2026.