Orbit Guard
Small inspection spacecraft that fly close to satellites in geostationary orbit to photograph and monitor them, for operators checking their hardware and for France's defense ministry watching for threats.
Why it matters
Operators and militaries have few ways to see what is happening to their satellites in geostationary orbit, whether damage, a failure or a hostile spacecraft nearby. Close-up inspection fills that gap. France's armament agency signed a EUR 50 million framework contract for an Orbit Guard spacecraft in 2025.
How the technology works
Orbit Guard uses Infinite Orbits' autonomous rendezvous and proximity technology to approach a target and hold position close by. Orbit Guard #1 launched on a Falcon Heavy in May 2023 and reached geostationary orbit.
The company plans at least three more Orbit Guard missions in 2027.
Sources
Updated Oct 21, 2026 · How we source facts · Suggest a correction