DARPA TO LAUNCH SPACE FACTORY IN EARTH ORBIT

Darpa launches Nom4D4D4D4D aimed at building a factory for the production of space equipment in orbit.

The plant in orbit will be built by In cooperation with the company Momentus as part of the NOM4D project (Novel Orbital and Moon Manufforing, Materials, and Mass-Efficient Design). Momentus plans to create an infrastructure for orbital production, which implies the transportation of raw materials from the Earth and its processing in orbit. The purpose of the NOM4D is to create structures specially designed for the space environment – solar panels, antennas and optical systems.

In the project participate several universities and private companies. The role of Momentus is the integration of technology using its Vigoride spacecraft, which is equipped with a unique water-reactive system. This allows him to change the orbit and perform the functions of the cosmic tugboat, moving other spacecraft and satellites.

Computer simulation of the spacecraft Momentus Vigoride

Despite promising technologies, Momentus had serious problems. The company was faced with financial difficulties that escalated after an unsuccessful attempt to enter the IPO. As a result, the company lost its founders and a significant part of its value.

In documents submitted to SEC, Momentus stated that she was looking for opportunities to attract capital and plans to hold 2 launches using SpaceX in June and October 2024. However, given the financial problems and poor liquidity due to the loss of potential contracts, it remains unclear whether these missions will take place.