In-Space Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing Technology Assessment |
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Background: Servicing, assembly, and manufacturing in space have the potential to transform space missions, exploration, and economics. Servicing in space, such as refueling or upgrading parts, could prolong spacecraft lifetimes and remove orbital debris. Assembly and manufacturing in space could enable more efficient designs for spacecraft, such as space habitats or space telescopes, that do not fit inside a rocket or may not withstand launch into space. In 2022, the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy released its National Strategy and Implementation Plan to guide U.S. development of in-space servicing, assembly, and manufacturing capabilities.
Key Questions: 1) What technologies are available or in development for in-space servicing, assembly, and manufacturing, and how mature are they? 2) What are the benefits and challenges of developing or using these technologies? 3) To what extent are policy options warranted, and what are the options?
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