Cambrian Works Partners with Astroscale U.S. for NASA Mission Study

Credit: Astroscale U.S.

 Ibadan, 15 August 2025 — Cambrian Works has selected Astroscale U.S. as its mission partner for a 30-day NASA study aimed at extending the operational life of the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory. The study will develop a comprehensive concept of operations and a detailed implementation plan for a potential commercial mission to raise the observatory's orbit, ensuring its continued contribution to space science.

Extending the Life of a Scientific Powerhouse

The Swift Observatory is one of NASA's most productive science platforms, dedicated to observing gamma-ray bursts, black holes, neutron stars, and other high-energy cosmic events. These observations help scientists unravel the mysteries of the universe’s most energetic phenomena. With its orbit gradually decaying, an orbital boost would enable Swift to continue producing groundbreaking discoveries for years to come.

Innovative Technology for Space Servicing

Cambrian Works will integrate its patent-pending Electric Thin Attachment Pad (eTAP™) technology into the mission concept. This advanced, space-rated, reusable subsystem can attach to almost any spacecraft surface without requiring prior modifications. When combined with Astroscale’s proven expertise in rendezvous, proximity operations, docking, and mission integration, the result is a solution that is both technically robust and operationally achievable on a short timeline.

Dr. Victor Aguero, Co-Founder, CEO, and CTO of Cambrian Works, stated: "The Cambrian-Astroscale U.S. solution offers NASA a credible, near-term path to extend the Swift Observatory’s mission while showcasing innovative, U.S.-led commercial servicing capabilities that could guide future missions."

A Milestone for U.S. Commercial Space Servicing

Ron Lopez, President of Astroscale U.S., emphasized the broader industry impact: "A successful Swift orbit boost would not only extend the mission of one of NASA’s most valuable observatories but also signal a new era in U.S. commercial space servicing, proving that the private sector can deliver high-value solutions for both government and commercial spacecraft."

Astroscale U.S. recently signed a reimbursable Space Act Agreement with NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) to test the Refueler spacecraft’s rendezvous, proximity operations, and docking (RPOD) capabilities. These demonstrations will prepare the company for upcoming operations to refuel U.S. Department of Defense satellites in geostationary orbit for the United States Space Force, showcasing technology that can be applied to a wide range of future missions.

Looking Ahead

The Cambrian-Astroscale partnership represents more than a single NASA project—it marks a pivotal advancement in the U.S.-led commercial servicing sector. A successful Swift mission could pave the way for wider adoption of on-orbit servicing, life extension, and repair initiatives, enabling spacecraft to continue vital work without the high costs and risks of replacement.