Morpheus Space announces collaboration with D-Orbit for GO-2 in-orbit test mission

Reuters Events SMR and Advanced Reactor 2025

Morpheus Space announces collaboration with D-Orbit for GO-2 in-orbit test mission
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Nov 20, 2024

Morpheus Space, a leading innovator in in-space mobility solutions, has revealed a partnership with D-Orbit, a prominent space logistics provider, to conduct an in-orbit demonstration mission aboard the ION Satellite Carrier, D-Orbit's orbital transfer vehicle. This mission will showcase the cutting-edge performance of Morpheus' GO-2 electric propulsion system in an operational space environment.

"This flight demonstration with D-Orbit is a significant step in showcasing the performance of our next-generation, GO-2, electric propulsion systems in orbit," said Morpheus Space CEO and Co-Founder Daniel Bock. "With 40 individually controllable emission sites, we provide exceptional thrust control, enabling a range of configurable thrust levels over extended periods. The in-orbit mission aims to demonstrate our advanced technology in action."

D-Orbit's Vice President of Commercial Strategy, Matteo Lorenzoni, commented, "We are happy to have Morpheus Space onboard ION for this in-orbit demonstration and look forward to testing their propulsion technology in space. We are committed to driving innovation in the space sector and missions like these, designed to enhance in-space mobility, align perfectly with our vision."

The ION Satellite Carrier, developed and operated by D-Orbit, is a versatile satellite platform capable of accommodating diverse mission needs through its modular design. It frequently undertakes complex tasks such as satellite deployments, in-orbit experiments, and edge computing operations.

Set to launch in early 2025, this demonstration will underline the advanced capabilities of Morpheus' GO-2 propulsion system, paving the way for its broader use in future space missions.

Bock added, "GO-2's modular architecture also enhances reliability by ensuring that a failure of a single component would not affect the overall propulsion system. This unique feature promotes greater operational resilience for satellites."

Currently, Morpheus Space has more than a dozen of its first-generation propulsion systems in orbit. This upcoming mission will further strengthen its operational portfolio and technical expertise.

"Through this demonstration of our capabilities, we are establishing a new benchmark for in-space mobility," said Morpheus Space President Kevin Lausten. "These innovations, as well as our ability to mass produce GO-2 units in our Reloaded factory, position us as a reliable partner in the New Space sector, and we are excited to unveil even more capabilities in the near future."