Overview

• ESA has signed a €119 million contract with Italian company D-Orbit for the RISE mission, set to launch in 2028.
• RISE will demonstrate the ability to rendezvous, dock, and maneuver geostationary satellites, extending their operational life.
• The mission supports ESA's goal of creating a circular economy in space by reducing space debris and maximizing satellite utility.
• D-Orbit's spacecraft will perform tasks such as refueling, repairing, and relocating satellites, akin to a 'space mechanic.'
• RISE is part of ESA's broader initiative, which includes collaboration with ClearSpace to actively remove space debris by 2026.