What Happened
Space Robot Blasts Off to Give Extra Life to Out-of-Gas Satellites
A private mission launched by SpaceX has sent a two-armed space robot to extend the life of out-of-gas communication satellites. The robot, dubbed MRV, will attach jetpacks to three aging satellites, providing them with the necessary propulsion to continue operating for several more years. This mission is part of a growing effort to keep spacecraft running as long as possible, and could save satellite operators millions of dollars in replacement costs. The mission was reported by The Washington Post.