MCP (Model Context Protocol)
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What is MCP (Model Context Protocol)?
MCP (Model Context Protocol) is an open standard, created by Anthropic, that lets AI models discover and call external tools and data sources through one common interface. An MCP server is written once and works with any compatible client.
An open standard protocol that enables AI models to securely connect to and interact with external custom tools, local filesystems, and enterprise data sources.
Created by Anthropic, MCP acts like a "USB-C port" for AI agents. By defining a universal interface, developers can write an "MCP Server" once and allow any compatible agent (like Cline, Windsurf, or Claude Code) to instantly discover and use those specific tools. This replaces fragmented, one-off API integrations.
How it relates to Orbit
Orbit exposes project status, queue, files, Git, and other operations as MCP tools to connected AI clients. See MCP Tool Catalog for details.
When you would use it
You implement an MCP server when you need to extend an AI agent's capabilities beyond its default toolset, safely hooking it into your organization's unique backend systems or data silos.
Common operations
- Connecting an AI agent to a local database to execute queries securely.
- Allowing an IDE agent to read live corporate documentation directly from internal wikis.
- Granting an agent secure, sandboxed access to cloud infrastructure commands.
Frequently asked questions
What is an MCP server?
A program that exposes tools, data or prompts to AI clients over MCP. Claude, Cursor, Codex and many other clients can connect to the same server.
Is Orbit an MCP server?
Yes. Orbit exposes dozens of tools, from reading project status to queueing a prompt or running git, so any MCP-capable AI client gains live awareness of your projects. See MCP Tool Catalog.
Can Orbit use other MCP servers?
Yes. Under Settings → Connections you can add external servers, and each tool must be classified and enabled before Apollo can call it. See Connect an External MCP Server.