Led by PIAP Space, the RAVEN project is moving into its next phase and is emerging as one of the most ambitious undertakings in the history of Poland’s space sector. RAVEN is an In-Space Transportation Vehicle (ISTV) designed to carry out rendezvous, capture, transport, and servicing maneuvers on satellites in orbit. Its first demonstration mission, RAVEN DEMO I, is planned for 2029 and will validate key technologies such as orbit changes, phasing, close-approach operations, and controlled deorbiting.

The project reflects dynamic changes in the global space industry, where the need for Rendezvous and Proximity Operations (RPO), from satellite refueling and component replacement to debris removal, collaborative scientific missions, and orbital assembly, together with inspection, servicing, and deorbiting, is becoming critical to ensuring orbital safety. RPO technologies are inherently dual-use: while they support peaceful activities such as satellite servicing and scientific collaboration, they can also be applied to defense and security objectives in space, reinforcing the importance of responsible development and use. RAVEN is positioned to this technological and operational gap, strengthening Poland’s role as a leader in European space logistics.

A cornerstone of the project is the GNC system, under GMV’s responsibility, which ensures the spacecraft’s precision and stability during its most demanding maneuvers, especially those involving RPO. GMV’s recognized expertise in GNC for Rendezvous and Proximity Operations will play a decisive role in the mission’s success. Throughout the mission, the spacecraft will autonomously conduct orbit changes, phasing maneuvers, complex approaches, and flybys near a target satellite, as well as controlled deorbiting.