In a major setback for the future of space operations, NASA has canceled its ambitious $2 billion satellite refueling project, known as OSAM-1. The decision was made amid strong criticism of Maxar, the program's main contractor, whose regulator called their performance "poor".
According to Reuters, the now-canceled OSAM-1 (In-Orbit Repair, Assembly and Manufacture 1) represents an ambition to extend the life of aging satellites through in-orbit repairs and refueling. For the same reason, nearly a decade of efforts have stalled.
NASA's statement bluntly blamed the project's failure on increasing technical hurdles, ballooning fees, and an ever-changing timeline. The last nail in the coffin seems to be a broader trend, moving away from fueling satellites that are not specifically designed for this process. This led to the need for more interested partners for NASA.
This announcement has had a significant impact on NASA's project management reputation. According to CNBC, a spokesperson for the agency admitted that 450 personnel were assigned to OSAM-1, which was disappointing. Despite the abrupt halt, the agency has pledged to support the team throughout the fiscal year.
NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center Robot Operations Center conducts a lights-out grab test of OSAM-1's robotic maintenance arm (left). Part of the model of the client satellite (right) is on top of a hexapod robot, which helps simulate zero-gravity motion. Credit: NASA.
Maxar Space Systems, the main contractor for the project, faced a harsh reprimand from NASA. "We are disappointed," their spokesman admitted, trying to adopt a diplomatic tone, even though NASA placed the blame squarely on them.
In addition, the reorganization of Maxar into the intelligence and spacecraft manufacturing division may have also contributed to these problems. In 2015, the creators first envisioned OSAM-1. It has an ambitious goal of extending the operational life of the Landsat 7 satellite through repairs. However, the project has been several years behind schedule and has significantly exceeded its initial cost estimates.
Perhaps the most terrifying was NASA's October report by the inspector general. These findings paint a picture of "MAXAR underestimating the scope" and lacking the technical capabilities to meet NASA's stringent requirements. However, in a particularly harsh assessment, the report even pointed the finger at NASA's own Goddard Center. It accused them of mishandling key aspects of the project. In the official report, allegations of exceeding budgets, missing release dates, and misaligning priorities are flooded with numerous and quick accusations.
The abrupt end of OSAM-1 raises questions about the readiness of the private sector to handle these complex space programs.
While companies like Northrop Grumman have already had success with satellite life extension missions, in-orbit refueling can be a more daunting challenge than the industry expects.
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