Analysis of a ‘turn-key’ no hardware space mission using the orbital services model

Many applications that would benefit from access to space cannot afford the cost of spacecraft development, launch and operations. Other operations require only a fraction of a spacecraft or complete use of a spacecraft for a limited period of time. This paper considers the value of a `turn-key´ style space mission. It considers what types of missions could be reasonably conducted using this approach. The economics of being a service provider are considered. Then, a prospective mission concept for one OSM `turn-key´ mission is presented. The value proposition of this mission is assessed and the hardware and other capabilities required for it are discussed. Then, a discussion of the economics for orbital service providers is presented, using the prospective mission as an illustrative example. Finally, prospective pathways to the technological and commercial points required for OSM `turn-key´ missions to become a reality are discussed, before concluding.