NASA Cancels $2 Billion Satellite Refueling Project Amid Delays, Cost Overruns, and Technical Issues
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NASA had a $2 billion project to build a robotic arm (called SPIDER) that could refuel old satellites in space. It was canceled on Friday amid delays, cost issues, and technical problems.
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In development since 2015, the project's goal was extending satellite lifespan by refueling them in orbit. Its budget grew to $2.05 billion by 2022.
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A scathing audit report criticized the project's main contractor, Maxar Technologies, for poor performance and inability to meet NASA's standards and deadlines.
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The SPIDER robotic arm was supposed to launch in 2025 but this was pushed back to 2026 before being canceled. The project was becoming obsolete as newer satellites are built for in-orbit refueling.
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NASA had 450 staff and contractors working on the project. It plans to support the workforce through 2024 as it shuts the project down.