Mikkel Christensen
NASA is working on a project that could completely change how spacecraft refuel during long-distance missions.
NASA is working on a project that could completely change how spacecraft refuel during long-distance missions.
According to BGR, the agency is developing technology that could one day create fuel stations in deep space for missions heading to destinations like Mars.
Space refueling
Since 2021, NASA has partnered with cryogenic engineers at Eta Space on a project called the Liquid Oxygen Flight Demonstration, also known as LOXSAT.
The mission is designed to test cryogenic fluid management technologies that can safely store super-cold fuels like hydrogen and liquid oxygen in space for long periods.
The demonstration is currently scheduled to launch by July 17, 2026.
Deep-space stations
NASA previously experimented with robotic refueling systems on Earth and aboard the International Space Station.
The LOXSAT team now hopes to place “gas stations” in deep space, allowing spacecraft to refuel during long journeys instead of carrying all fuel from launch.
One of the biggest challenges is keeping cryogenic fuels cold enough while stored far from Earth.
High-tech mission
NASA is expected to use powerful supercomputers to help coordinate and monitor the mission’s 11 cryogenic fluid management technologies during the planned nine-month demonstration.
The project has gained even more attention following the success of the Artemis II mission earlier this year.
According to researchers, advances in space refueling technology could help speed up future crewed missions deeper into space.
Sources: BGR, NASA
