RAFTI Ground Coupling (Pre-Launch Fueling Adapter)
Orbit Fab
The RAFTI Ground Coupling is Orbit Fab’s launch-site fueling adapter that allows the RAFTI satellite refueling port to function as a standard fill-and-drain valve during ground operations prior to launch. Spacecraft equipped with RAFTI can be fueled at the launch site using standard ground propellant servicing infrastructure, with the Ground Coupling acting as the interface […]
Key figurescomparable across the catalogue
- TRL
- 8
Normalised to common units so this product can be compared with others in its category. The supplier's own wording is below.
As published by the supplier
- Compatible Interface
- RAFTI (Rapidly Attachable Fluid Transfer Interface)
- Flow indication
- Visual operation indicators
- FOD mitigation
- Fully enclosed chassis
- Flow channels
- Independent flow per valve core (dual)
- Compatible propellants
- Hydrazine, Xenon, Krypton, H2O2, Water, Propene/Ethane
- Integration
- Compatible with existing ground propellant servicing infrastructure
- System TRL
- TRL 8 (flight qualified RAFTI system)
About
The RAFTI Ground Coupling is Orbit Fab’s launch-site fueling adapter that allows the RAFTI satellite refueling port to function as a standard fill-and-drain valve during ground operations prior to launch. Spacecraft equipped with RAFTI can be fueled at the launch site using standard ground propellant servicing infrastructure, with the Ground Coupling acting as the interface between conventional ground equipment and the RAFTI interface on the spacecraft. The unit features visual operation indicators so technicians can confirm flow status without instrumentation, a fully enclosed chassis design to prevent foreign object debris (FOD) generation in propellant systems, and independent flow capability per valve core, supporting two-propellant operations. The Ground Coupling integrates seamlessly with existing launch site ground support equipment and propellant handling systems, eliminating the need for spacecraft-level modifications to accommodate both ground fueling and on-orbit refueling. Together with the RAFTI satellite port (TRL 8, flight qualified), the Ground Coupling delivers a complete fueling solution from factory to orbit. The RAFTI system supports Hydrazine, Xenon, Krypton, High-Test Peroxide, water, and Propene/Ethane propellants.
Documentation
Need the full ICD, test reports or a specific revision? Ask the supplier directly.