In August 2023, True Anomaly, a Colorado-based defense technology startup specializing in autonomous spacecraft, inaugurated its GravityWorks manufacturing facility in Centennial, Colorado. This state-of-the-art 35,000-square-foot facility is dedicated to the production of the company's Jackal Autonomous Orbital Vehicles (AOVs), designed for advanced space operations. ([defensenews.com](
Facility Overview
The GravityWorks facility represents a significant advancement in satellite manufacturing, employing an innovative assembly line approach to produce fully tested, mission-ready satellites every five days. This rapid production capability is crucial for meeting the evolving demands of space security and sustainability. ([exterrajsc.com](
Jackal Autonomous Orbital Vehicles
The Jackal AOVs are central to True Anomaly's mission to enhance space security. These spacecraft are engineered for rendezvous and proximity operations, enabling close approaches for satellite servicing tasks such as in-orbit refueling and repair. The first two Jackal AOVs were slated for launch in February 2024 aboard SpaceX's Transporter-10 mission from Vandenberg Space Force Base. ([trueanomaly.space](
Regulatory Approvals
Prior to the facility's opening, True Anomaly secured essential authorizations from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). These approvals permit the company to perform non-Earth imaging and demonstrate in-space rendezvous proximity operations with its Jackal AOVs, marking a significant milestone in the company's development. ([techcrunch.com](
Strategic Significance
The establishment of GravityWorks underscores True Anomaly's commitment to advancing space defense capabilities. By integrating hardware, software, and artificial intelligence, the facility aims to deliver resilient offerings at scale, supporting the U.S. and its allies in addressing the continuously evolving challenges of space security. ([exterrajsc.com](
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, True Anomaly plans to expand its manufacturing capacity to meet increasing demand. In February 2025, the company announced the opening of a 90,000-square-foot facility in Long Beach, California, to support new product development and vertical integration. ([trueanomaly.space]( This expansion reflects the company's rapid growth and its dedication to enhancing space defense capabilities.