Optus Advances Satellite Life Extension with Project Aurora

Australian operator Optus has completed the first phase of Project Aurora, its satellite life-extension programme designed to keep the Optus D3 satellite in service while strengthening the resilience of its broader satellite network.

The project used a Mission Extension Vehicle from SpaceLogistics, a Northrop Grumman company, to dock with Optus D3 and provide propulsion and attitude-control support. After more than a year of operations, the vehicle has now safely undocked, marking the successful completion of Aurora Phase I.

Optus D3, like many geostationary satellites, was approaching the end of its fuel reserves despite remaining in good working condition. Rather than retiring the satellite, Optus opted for in-orbit servicing to extend its operational value and maintain redundancy across its network.

The satellite supports connectivity across Australia and the Asia-Pacific region, providing additional resilience for enterprise, government and regional communications customers. By extending D3’s life, Optus can continue using existing infrastructure while preserving capacity and operational flexibility.

The next stage, Aurora Phase II, will use Northrop Grumman’s Mission Robotic Vehicle to install a Mission Extension Pod on D3 during a planned 2027 mission. Unlike the temporary support provided in Phase I, the pod is designed to become a permanent addition to the satellite and is expected to extend its life by a further six years.