Space Machines Company (SMC), an Australian space travel and logistics company has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with leading space launch services provider Arianespace, to study options available and ensure compatibility with SMC’s Orbital Transfer Vehicles (OTV) and launchers.

The first mission of the partnership is expected to fly in Q2 2023 carrying Australian payloads with SMC aiming to maximize its offering by ensuring OTV compatibility with the maximum possible launchers, which includes Ariane 6 and Vega C.

SMC’s Optimus OTV is designed to tackle the issue of space debris by allowing customers to manage their satellites which SMC spacecraft will cater to in-orbit logistic requirements such as spacecraft inspection, servicing, and maintenance.

Founded in 2018, Space Machines Company provides in-orbital transportation and logistical services. The company aims to create a transportation network in space enabling in-space mobility to orbits including near-earth and deep-space. Its services portfolio includes constellation deployment, satellite servicing, last-mile space cargo delivery, and space exploration among others.