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Amentum to Design Gravity Offload System for UK Space Agency

Amentum to Design Gravity Offload System for UK Space Agency

Satellite Applications Catapult, a technology and innovation firm funded by the U.K. Space Agency, has awarded Amentum a contract to design a specialized gravity offload system to simulate zero-gravity conditions for satellite and spacecraft manufacturers.

The gravity offload system will mimic the effects of space conditions on suspended objects, supporting the development of docking, capture and control systems. Amentum’s robotics specialists will design, qualify and install the system at the client’s site, with delivery scheduled for March. The engineering firm said the goal is to enhance safety and reduce the risks of mission failures.

Andy White, senior vice president of Energy and Environment International at Amentum, emphasized the company’s commitment to support the customer’s mission.

“We will use our strengths in robotics and technology to create a new facility that will help our client advance its vision to create a robust and interconnected U.K. space ecosystem fostering innovation, growth, collaboration and technological advancement,” the official said.

A techUK report released in early 2024 identified robotics as one of the emerging technologies that will help the U.K. achieve its goal of becoming a space superpower.

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