Blue Origin's multi-orbit, multi-mission space platform "Blue Ring" has been basically completed. The platform will provide commercial and government customers with a variety of logistics services from medium-sized Earth orbit to interstellar space. Over the next decade, vast numbers of satellites and space stations will be launched into Earth orbit and beyond, but as with any prosperous process, the real challenge will be developing the infrastructure to support such an endeavor.

While many companies are developing servicing spacecraft to refuel satellites or extend the life of satellites, Blue Origin is taking this a step further and creating a Swiss Army Knife-like spacecraft that can perform multiple missions in multiple orbits.

Part of Blue Origin's newly formed Space Systems business unit, BlueRing is designed to deliver or carry payloads weighing up to three tons. According to an interview with Aviation Week’s Lars Hoffman, Blue Origin’s vice president of government sales, the goal is to create a multi-purpose platform that can serve as a transport aircraft, data relay, logistics support spacecraft, tanker, and even a source of “space” cloud computing capabilities. In addition, the "Blue Ring" can send satellites into multiple orbits or move between multiple orbits as needed.

To accommodate the payload, Blue Ring is equipped with an Evolved Launch Vehicle (EELV) Secondary Payload Adapter (ESPA), available in a 15-inch (38 cm) standard ESPA configuration and a 24-inch (61 cm) large ESPA configuration. There is also a top deck for carrying larger payloads.

Depending on the size of the payload, the spacecraft can move anywhere between medium Earth orbit to interstellar space. Thrusters are a combination of chemical thrusters for high acceleration and electric thrusters powered by solar arrays for high speeds.

According to Blue Origin, the "Blue Ring" can be installed within the launch fairing of Falcon 9, Falcon Heavy, Vulcan and New Glenn launch vehicles. Once in orbit, it can operate for five years before needing to be refueled. The first launch is expected in 2025.

Paul Ebertz, senior vice president of space systems at Blue Origin, said: "Blue Ring solves two of the most difficult challenges in space today: growing space infrastructure and increasing on-orbit mobility. We are providing customers with the ability to easily enter and maneuver a variety of orbits in a cost-effective manner, while also obtaining critical data to ensure mission success."