California Company to Assist DARPA with In-Space Structure Assembly Demonstration

In a groundbreaking move, California-based space services company Momentus has secured a $3.5 million contract with the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) to demonstrate the assembly of large-scale structures in Earth's orbit. This initiative is part of DARPA's Novel Orbital and Moon Manufacturing, Materials, and Mass-efficient Design (NOM4D) program, which aims to revolutionize space manufacturing for complex Department of Defense systems.

The NOM4D Program: A Vision for In-Space Manufacturing

The NOM4D program seeks to develop technologies that enable the construction of robust and precise structures directly in space. Unlike traditional deployable structures designed to withstand the rigors of launch, NOM4D envisions transporting raw materials from Earth to manufacture components such as solar arrays, antennas, and optics optimized specifically for the space environment. This approach could lead to more efficient designs and reduce the limitations imposed by current launch vehicle capacities.

Momentus' Role and the Vigoride Orbital Service Vehicle

Under this contract, Momentus will utilize its proprietary Vigoride Orbital Service Vehicle to support the in-space assembly demonstration. The Vigoride is designed to deliver up to 200 kilograms (441 pounds) of cargo, supply up to 1 kilowatt of power, and host payloads near the International Space Station. It employs a water-based propulsion system, allowing it to maneuver and modify its orbit to meet various mission requirements.

The vehicle is scheduled to launch aboard a SpaceX Transporter rideshare mission in early 2026. Once in low-Earth orbit, Vigoride will carry and support assembly devices that will be evaluated as part of the NOM4D program. This mission represents a significant step toward advancing in-space construction capabilities.

Implications for the Future of Space Operations

The ability to assemble structures in space has the potential to transform space operations. Structures that are too large to fit within the confines of a launch vehicle can be robotically assembled in orbit, leading to less complex and more cost-effective solutions. This capability could pave the way for large communications antennas, hubs for orbital manufacturing of advanced materials, and the repair and upgrade of space systems.

Momentus CEO John Rood expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, "Cost-effective assembly of structures in space has the potential to transform how we operate in space."

Momentus' partnership with DARPA under the NOM4D program marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of space infrastructure. By demonstrating the feasibility of assembling large-scale structures in orbit, this initiative could redefine the possibilities of space exploration and utilization, ushering in a new era of innovation and efficiency in the final frontier.