Orbital carrier could offer 'game-changer' space 'launch pad'

An "orbital carrier" could offer a "game-changer" space 'launch pad'. It acts like an aircraft carrier at sea, and allows space vehicle operators to launch spacecraft and satellites into orbit faster and at a cheaper rate to "address threats on orbit". Space infrastructure firm Gravitics Inc may get up to $60 million worth of funding from SpaceWERX, which is the innovation branch of the US Space Force, to create the in-orbit carriers.

Colin Doughan, chief executive officer of Gravitics, told BBC Sky at Night magazine: "We're honoured to partner with the US Space Force on this critical initiative "The Orbital Carrier is a game-changer, acting as a pre-positioned launch pad in space. "It bypasses traditional launch constraints, enabling space vehicle operators to rapidly select a deployment orbit on-demand." Gravitics said in a statement: "The Orbital Carrier is designed to pre-position multiple manoeuvrable space vehicles that can deliver a rapid response to address threats on orbit.



"This carrier will provide the US Space Force with unprecedented flexibility and speed for in-space operations, significantly enhancing the nation's space defence posture.".