EP29: Interview with Space Machines

Space Machines Company (SMC) is an Australian space startup founded in 2019 that provides orbital logistics, in-space servicing, and space resilience solutions. Its mission is to act as “roadside assistance in space,” offering rapid response capabilities to protect and support satellites in Earth orbit and beyond.

• Founded: 2019, headquartered in Sydney, Australia.
• Global Presence: Offices in Adelaide (Australia), Bengaluru (India), and Denver (USA).
• Core Mission: Safeguard space assets and enhance resilience in congested and contested orbital environments.

• Orbital Logistics & Transportation

  • Deploy spacecraft into LEO, MEO, GEO, and beyond.
  • Provide payload hosting services using the Optimus platform.

• In-Space Services

  • Satellite inspection and imagery (down to 1 cm resolution).
  • Refueling and life extension.
  • Active debris removal.
  • Spacecraft servicing and repair.

• Exploration

  • Scientific and commercial missions to the Moon and deep space.

• Space Resilience

  • Orbitside Assist: Rapid on-orbit response to monitor, assist, and protect satellites.
  • Positioned as “first responders” for allied space operations under AUKUS and QUAD partnerships.

• Sustainability: Build resilience in space defense and commercial activities.
• Innovation: Develop affordable, accessible platforms for on-orbit servicing.
• Future Outlook: Envisions a future where all satellites are serviced in orbit, reducing costs and extending mission lifespans.

In essence: Space Machines Company is positioning itself as a critical enabler of safe, sustainable, and resilient space operations, combining orbital logistics with rapid-response servicing to protect satellites and extend their utility.

Would you like me to also compare Space Machines Company with other orbital servicing startups (like Astroscale or Orbit Fab) so you can see how their approaches differ?

🚀 Company Overview🔑 Capabilities & Services🌌 Strategic Vision📊 At a GlanceAttributeDetailsFounded2019HQSydney, AustraliaGlobal OfficesAdelaide, Bengaluru, DenverFlagship PlatformOptimusKey Service“Roadside Assistance in Space” (Orbitside Assist)CapabilitiesOrbital transport, servicing, debris removal, explorationPartnershipsAUKUS, QUAD footprint for allied resilience