Space Shuttle Astro (disambiguation) Autonomous Space Transport Robotic Operations (ASTRO), is an American technology demonstration satellite which was operated as part of the Orbital Express programme. It was used to demonstrate autonomous servicing and refuelling operations in orbit, performing tests on the NEXTSat satellite which was launched with ASTRO for that purpose. Launched in March 2007, it was operated for four months, and then deactivated in orbit.