End-of-Life Services

KMI’s End-of-Life Services provide satellite operators with a solution to meet deorbit requirements for their satellites. Instead of relying on a functional satellite to deorbit itself, which consumes precious fuel and limits mission duration, KMI deploys its Laelaps spacecraft to safely secure and deorbit non-functional satellites. This service is available for both planned missions and satellites already in orbit. A key feature is KMI’s unique method of capture and release, which requires no engineering considerations from the satellite operator, simplifying the contracting process and allowing operators to prioritize their mission needs. The service enables operators to fully utilize their space assets, maximize revenue, and delay the high capital costs associated with launching replacement assets. KMI can be listed on regulatory permits for the mission. The pricing model involves monthly service fees starting after the first month of satellite operations and stopping once the satellite’s mission is complete and removal is necessary. For satellites already in space, the service fee is adjusted, and additional retrieval fees apply for unexpected early malfunctions within the first 6 months. Pricing estimates are available via a web-based calculator, though final prices are subject to negotiation.