ClearSpace and Eutelsat sign term sheet to advance Phoenix GEO life-extension services

ClearSpace has signed a term sheet with satellite operator Eutelsat, establishing a framework for cooperation on the Phoenix geostationary orbit (GEO) life-extension mission and the development of future commercial in-orbit servicing services.

The agreement marks an important commercial milestone for Phoenix, bringing ClearSpace and Eutelsat together to define the technical, operational and commercial foundations for GEO life-extension services. It outlines a pathway from the development of Phoenix’s servicing capabilities towards future commercial service agreements.

The collaboration envisages Eutelsat contributing its operational expertise to the development of Phoenix, helping shape service requirements, mission design and demonstration planning. It also provides a basis for exploring the use of a Eutelsat satellite in the in-orbit demonstration, subject to further agreement.

The milestone was highlighted at NEO Space in Luxembourg on 20 October, where representatives from ClearSpace and Eutelsat joined the Newtech in Space session to discuss Phoenix and their shared vision for the future of GEO life-extension services.

How satellite life-extension services can maximise the value of orbiting assets

For satellite operators, life-extension services could provide greater flexibility in managing GEO fleets, extending the productive life of existing spacecraft and maximising the value of assets already in orbit. Phoenix is being developed to demonstrate the technologies needed to deliver these services commercially.

Sabrina Andiappane, Managing Director of ClearSpace Luxembourg, said: “Eutelsat brings invaluable customer insight into how we design and deliver that capability. This agreement is an important step in connecting our technology development with the operational needs of the market, and in building a commercial in-orbit servicing business from Luxembourg from Phoenix and the subsequent services.”

Frédéric Piro, Chief Engineering Officer at Eutelsat, said: “Our GEO fleet supports essential broadcast and connectivity services for customers around the world. Life-extension technologies could help us deliver these services for longer, while giving us more options in planning the evolution of our fleet and making the most of our investment in satellites already in orbit. We look forward to exploring this potential with ClearSpace through Phoenix and beyond.”

Phoenix is advancing under the European Space Agency’s ARTES programme, building on its initial development under Luxembourg’s national space programme. The mission aims to demonstrate safe rendezvous, docking and control of a satellite in GEO, paving the way for commercial life-extension services.