Arianespace and Infinite Orbits signed a memorandum of understanding July 7 to explore future collaboration on multiple direct-to-GEO rideshare launch services. Credit: Arianespace
MILAN — Arianespace has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with French in-orbit servicing company Infinite Orbits to explore future collaboration on multiple direct-to-GEO rideshare launch services, the companies announced July 7.
Arianespace first mentioned the possibility of rideshare services to geostationary orbit in 2019. But amid growing concerns over potential bottlenecks in the rideshare market after 2028, the European launch provider is now revisiting the possibility of GEO rideshare services for commercial customers in more concrete terms.
While Ariane 6 and Vega C have flown rideshare missions, Europe does not currently offer an established direct-to-LEO or direct-to-GEO rideshare service. That need would be exacerbated if SpaceX reduced, suspended or ended its rideshare programs.
“The challenges facing the space sector, and geostationary orbit in particular, demandresponses equal to their strategic importance” Adel Haddoud, chief executive of Infinite Orbits, said in a press release.
