In-Space Satellite Servicing with Dave Barnhart and Rahul Rughani | Arkisys

In this episode, I sit down with Rahul Rugani and Dave Barnhart, the founders of Arkisys, a company set to revolutionize on-orbit satellite servicing. Arkisys is spearheading the creation of one of the first business platforms in space. Their first product is called the "Port Module", an aggregatable spacecraft that is designed to service, refuel, and repair satellites in space.
As Dave puts it, space missions have been defined by a "throwaway culture"-launch a satellite, use it until its end of life, and let it drift as space debris. But what if this didn't have to be the norm? What if we could repair satellites, upgrade systems, and extend the functionality of space assets? That’s the vision Arkisys is pursuing, aiming to turn space into a sustainable environment for growth and innovation, for ALL!
Dave is a veteran of the aerospace industry. He shares his experience at DARPA and Vanguard Space. Dave gives us insight into how Arkisys is navigating the "new space" economy, how they’re pushing boundaries in satellite servicing, and what it takes to succeed in an industry with no playbook.
Also in this conversation, Rahul, the chief systems engineer, dives into the technical architecture of the Port Module. Rahul explains how Arkisys is overcoming the challenges of building an adaptable, modular system that can grow and evolve as more satellites and space systems enter orbit.
Key topics covered in this episode include:
- The evolving role of on-orbit satellite servicing
- How Arkisys’ Port Module can serve as a "gas station" in space
- Challenges in scaling and developing modular space infrastructure
- The vision for creating a long-term space economy
- How Arkisys is making space sustainable by avoiding the "throwaway culture"
- Insights into Arkisys’ partnership with cutting-edge companies like Motiv and Gate Space
Timestamps in this episode:
00:00 - Episode Intro
02:02 - Guest Intro
02:14 - Exploring the Port Module
03:38 - Meet Rahul Rughani
04:21 - Evolution of the Space Industry
07:41 - Genesis of Arkisys
10:19 - Challenges and Innovations
20:41 - Future Missions and Testing
26:39 - Investor Expectations and Business Strategy
27:21 - Testing and Technology Development in Space
27:42 - Market for Space Servicing
28:19 - Analogy to AWS and Business Enablement
29:39 - Space Economy and Port Infrastructure
32:22 - Space Accelerators and Partnership with Gate Space
37:02 - Visiting Vessel Handbook and Standards
41:31 - Future of Space Ports and Starship Era
46:54 - Closing Thoughts and Advice for Founders
Links to socials:
Arkisys: www.arkisys.com/
Anurag's socials: x.com/anu_bonth