Neumann Space Achieves Milestone with First Molybdenum-Fueled Thruster Test in Space

Neumann Space Achieves Milestone with First Molybdenum-Fueled Thruster Test in Space
by Simon Mansfield
Sydney, Australia (SPX) Dec 12, 2023

Neumann Space, an Australian-based innovator in space technology, has recently made headlines with the successful completion of the first series of on-orbit tests of its Neumann Drive, a leading propulsion system designed for small spacecraft. This significant achievement marks Neumann Space as the first commercial entity to fire a thruster in space that utilizes Molybdenum, a solid metallic propellant, showcasing a novel use of a safe, storable, and abundant material for electric propulsion.

The Neumann Drive was launched into space aboard the Skykraft-3 satellite in June, marking the beginning of a series of rigorous tests. These tests were aimed at assessing the resilience of the Neumann Drive to the launch environment, validating its electronic systems, ensuring the charging of its power capacitors, and conducting a successful test firing of the thruster. All these objectives were met with success, laying a solid foundation for the future of space propulsion technology.

Herve Astier, CEO of Neumann Space, expressed his satisfaction with the testing phase, stating, "We are pleased to have successfully begun our on-orbit testing of the performance of the Neumann Drive and achieved our initial mission objectives." He further added that the mission provided assurance in the space environment and serves as a foundation for achieving their vision of delivering superior mobility in space.

The uniqueness of the Neumann Drive lies in its enhanced safety, efficiency, and the ability to be transported and stored with a full load of fuel while integrated into spacecraft. This simplicity is evident in every aspect of its design, manufacturing, integration into satellites, and operational ease in space. These characteristics position the Neumann Drive as a highly competitive and reliable propulsion system in the growing satellite market.

Astier also highlighted the importance of Low Earth Orbit as a new laboratory for Neumann Space, expressing enthusiasm for building on the initial achievement with future missions. These missions aim to demonstrate extended duration firing of the thruster with the goal of changing spacecraft orbital velocity. The experience and technical knowledge gained from this successful flight are set to be leveraged in the Company's subsequent missions, including the second flight that recently took place onboard a spacecraft from Inovor Technologies.

Looking ahead, Neumann Space is developing a second, more powerful version of the Neumann Drive, incorporating lessons learned to date. This next-generation system is scheduled to fly on three different satellite buses with international partners in 2024. These developments are a testament to Neumann Space's commitment to enhancing the quality and performance of its product, solidifying its position as a leader in space propulsion technology.

Astier concluded with a note on the broader industry context, stating, "The industry is experiencing a rapid surge in the launch of satellites into space, accompanied by heightened regulatory standards and mission demands. This convergence is generating a robust need for enhanced propulsion systems, and our program of on-orbit testing is designed to move us quickly to commercialisation and to answer the needs of an underserved market."