SSC, Partners Engage in Tabletop Exercise to Study On-Orbit Refueling Models

The Space Systems Command has conducted the Parallax Rising 2.2 tabletop exercise to identify space refueling models.

During the three-day exercise, participants across the SSC and other organizations across the space enterprise looked at space refueling from a tactical command-and-control perspective to understand how to integrate commercial refuelers with the Department of Defense’s systems. They also identified various refueling operational procedures that could be applied to the U.S. Space Force and the preferred types of refuelers that can withstand space-based conflicts.

Findings from the exercise will be reviewed to inform future acquisition decisions and build the Space Force’s future space architecture, the SSC said.

The Space Force has been looking at ways to access space-based refueling capabilities.

In February, Maj. Gen. Stephen Purdy, program executive officer for assured access to space at the SSC and a past Potomac Officers Club speaker, said the command wants to work with the private sector for on-orbit satellite refueling and servicing technologies to address a growing demand for better satellite mobility. Purdy’s call came alongside the U.S. Space Command’s call for increased maneuverability for surveillance spacecraft.