Overview

• The U.S. Space Force awarded Seattle-based Gravitics a $60 million contract to develop the Orbital Carrier, a rapid satellite deployment platform.
• The Orbital Carrier is designed to function as an in-space launch pad, prepositioning maneuverable vehicles for on-demand satellite deployment.
• The project aims to enhance U.S. space defense against emerging threats, including potential Chinese and Russian anti-satellite tactics.
• Gravitics plans to have the Orbital Carrier ready for demonstration launches by 2026, advancing the Space Force’s Tactically Responsive Space initiative.
• Funding for the development comes from SpaceWERX, the innovation-focused arm of the Space Force, combining government and private investment.