The US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (Darpa) has awarded a contract to Space Systems / Loral (SSL) to study the feasibility of on-orbit robotic assembly of geostationary communication satellites.

The contract is part of Darpa’s Dragonfly programme, which aims to transport larger satellites in pieces into space for assembly there.

During the five-month first phase of the study, SSL will demonstrate the benefits of on-orbit assembly such as the cost, weight and performance of satellites.

"[This mission] has the potential to transform the way satellites are built."

Designed for both military and commercial applications, the concept involves self-assembly from a stowed state while in orbit with a focus on configuration of large radio frequency (RF) antenna reflectors.

SSL president John Celli said: "The Dragonfly programme gives SSL the opportunity to demonstrate our advanced robotics capabilities with a mission that has the potential to transform the way satellites are built.

"SSL has a track record of partnering with Darpa on cost-effective developments that leverage commercial practises and apply to both military and commercial use."

The company has approached Nasa for collaboration on further development of on-orbit satellite assembly capability, with a ground demonstration and then flight application.

SSL designs and manufactures spacecraft for direct-to-home television, video content distribution, broadband Internet, mobile communications, and Earth observation services. It also offers small satellites, and robotics and automation solutions for remote operations.