Delphi
A reusable satellite that carries customer payloads, returns to Earth and is refitted to fly again. The demonstration is planned for the first quarter of 2027.
Why it matters
Most satellites are thrown away after one mission. Recovering the spacecraft would let operators get payloads back, upgrade them and reuse expensive hardware.
How the technology works
A rigid heat shield with NASA heritage protects the bus and payloads during reentry, and a parachute brings the satellite down so ground crews can reach payloads within minutes. The bus is then refurbished for another flight.
The first mission will launch on a SpaceX rideshare arranged by Exolaunch, and Southern Launch has a contract to receive Delphi returns in South Australia.
Sources
Updated Oct 22, 2026 · How we source facts · Suggest a correction