Redwire Awarded Contract to Provide Spacecraft Docking Systems for The Exploration Company’s European Space Capsule
Nyx Spacecraft Credit: The Exploration Company
Redwire Corporation (NYSE: RDW), a global leader in space and defense technology solutions, and The Exploration Company (TEC), a European aerospace company developing reusable, in-orbit-refuelable spacecraft, announced they have entered an agreement for Redwire to provide two International Docking System Standard (IDSS) compliant docking systems for TEC’s flagship spacecraft, Nyx. Through this eight-figure deal, Redwire’s state-of-the-art docking system, the International Berthing and Docking Mechanism (IBDM), will support future autonomous rendezvous and docking capabilities for Nyx, contributing to Europe’s goal of strengthening autonomous access to space.
“This agreement marks a significant step in supporting Europe’s fast-growing commercial space sector. We are thrilled to contribute to one of the most exciting space programs in Europe,” said Marc Dielissen, General Manager of Redwire Belgium. “IBDM allows for future docking operations in IDSS-compliant environments and positions our system to support missions that demand flexibility, safety, and precision.”
Developed in Belgium in collaboration with international partners and the European Space Agency, IBDM is compliant with the IDSS, and supports both berthing and autonomous docking operations as part of a modular, standardized interface architecture. The IBDM program is also supported by the Redwire office in Poland. Redwire’s offices in Belgium and Poland are both already working on an IBDM system for the lunar Gateway’s International Habitat. The lessons learned from this effort will further bolster the capabilities of and confidence in the docking systems that will be provided to TEC for Nyx.
“With Nyx, our goal is to build the most affordable and sustainable vehicle for space cargo transit. Partnering with Redwire on the Nyx docking system strengthens that mission. Their expertise and collaborative mindset make them an ideal partner for The Exploration Company, as we together believe that the greatest achievements in space are built on trust and shared purpose,” said Najwa Naimy, Chief Program Officer at The Exploration Company.
The selection of an IDSS-compliant mechanism supports TEC’s long-term approach to ensuring compatibility with standardized docking environments as future commercial and institutional missions evolve.