Design and experimental validation of a docking interface for orbital refueling
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: This work addresses the need for standardized in-space refueling technologies by presenting the design and experimental validation of a Docking Interface for Orbital Refueling. A comprehensive review of existing refueling demonstrations, missions, and associated technologies is first provided. Taking into account the key aspects of these refueling technologies, a novel design is proposed with a compact interface between the servicer and client. The mechanism features a magnetic cone docking connection, grappling arms inspired by Dawn Aerospace’s and Orbit Fab’s capture method, and an electric pump-based fuel transfer approach. The complete end-to-end refueling operation—including docking, capture, and fluid transfer—is experimentally validated on a planar air-bearing testbed. The experimental validation campaign conducted with Carleton University’s Spacecraft Proximity Operations Testbed demonstrates consistent and successful leak-free fluid transfers under varying docking angles and approach speeds. For in-space operations, alterations to the current laboratory prototype are discussed.
Source: Acta Astronautica
Authors: Dominika Folta, Steve Ulrich
Institution: Carleton University
Language: English
Subfield: Aerospace Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,350
Funder: Carleton University
OpenAlex ID: W7156265454