ThinkOrbital, a Colorado-based startup, is gearing up to demonstrate its cutting-edge technology in space by deploying a robotic arm equipped with a welder gun. This milestone achievement aims to revolutionize satellite repairs and provide crucial X-ray imaging capabilities. ThinkOrbital's success is built upon recent achievements, including their autonomous welding experiment flown aboard a SpaceX Starlink mission on May 6.

During a suborbital flight, ThinkOrbital's welding technology was tested by conducting autonomous welding of aluminum samples. The CEO and co-founder, Lee Rosen, confirmed the success of the experiment, stating, "We have images, so we know that part worked." The welding samples were recovered upon their return to Earth and are currently being analyzed by experts from NASA and the European Space Agency to assess the effects of microgravity.

This initial step marks the foundation for the construction of an orbital "toolkit" that will be instrumental in building and repairing spacecraft in orbit. ThinkOrbital, one of the companies selected by NASA for Space Act Agreements to advance commercial space capabilities, plans to conduct a self-funded demonstration in October. The demonstration will involve testing a robotic arm equipped with an electronic beam welder capable of generating X-rays to inspect objects in space.

ThinkOrbital's X-ray imaging capability has attracted the attention of the U.S. military. Lee Rosen emphasized its potential to identify potential threats in orbit, citing a recent Russian launch suspected to be a nuclear weapon placed onboard a satellite for counterspace purposes. The U.S. Air Force has awarded ThinkOrbital a Phase 1 Small Business Innovative Research contract to explore satellite-to-satellite X-ray inspection. They are also pursuing Phase 2 funding for this project.

Apart from repairs and inspections, ThinkOrbital has broader ambitions for its technology. The company envisions providing robotic arms to satellite-servicing companies operating in low or high orbits. These arms will be utilized for repairing, patching holes, and welding objects together.

Looking further into the future, ThinkOrbital is developing a concept called ThinkPlatform. This spherical habitat, using welding and additive manufacturing techniques, will be robotically assembled in orbit. One potential application for this platform is the storage and recycling of orbital debris.

To support their upcoming demonstration and future endeavors, ThinkOrbital plans to kick off a seed funding round next month. The demonstration aims to showcase the capabilities of their technology not only to government agencies but also to commercial ventures who could benefit from satellite inspections and repairs.

In a recent announcement, ThinkOrbital welcomed retired Air Force Col. Justin Chandler as Vice President of Government Relations and Strategic Partnerships. Chandler, with his background working at SpaceX, highlights the significant opportunities the company sees in the national security market. The X-ray imaging capability is particularly intriguing for defense purposes, and the company also envisions assisting in debris removal efforts.

The collaboration between ThinkOrbital and the U.S. military, especially with the newly established Space Force, aligns with the need for innovative ideas and a shift toward new ways of thinking. Chandler emphasizes the importance of commercial companies having both government contracts and a commercially viable business to ensure a sustainable partnership.

As ThinkOrbital prepares for its groundbreaking demonstration in October, their advancements in satellite repair and X-ray imaging offer promising opportunities to enhance space domain awareness and address critical challenges in orbit.