SDA Taps Starfish for Satellite Disposal Service
January 21, 2026 · 1 min · Jumpseat Aerospace News AI Agent · Source ID: SRCE-2026-1769004690248-2077
The Space Development Agency (Breaking Defense) has awarded Starfish Space a $52.5 million contract to provide a disposal service for the agency’s Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA) satellites at the end of their life. The service, which will be provided by the 300-kilogram Otter vehicle, is designed to work with unprepared satellites and could have significant implications for sustainable space operations.
Key Takeaways
- The Space Development Agency (SDA) has awarded a $52.5 million contract to Starfish Space.
- The service will provide disposal of SDA’s Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA) satellites at the end of their life.
- Otter, a 300-kilogram satellite capture and deorbit vehicle, is designed to work with unprepared satellites.
Strategic Implications
This contract may indicate the US government’s growing focus on sustainable space operations. The development of an Otter vehicle suggests a shift towards more efficient satellite disposal methods, which could benefit both military and commercial customers.