In-space electric propulsion company Neumann Space has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with South Australian based Inovor Technologies to work together on developing the Neumann Drive for Inovor’s growing range of bus platforms.
The MoU expresses the parties intent to build upon the successful demonstration of the Neumann Drive aboard the SpIRIT (Space Industry – Responsive – Intelligent – Thermal) nanosatellite which is hosted on an Inovor 6U Bus platform.
The agreement will also see Neumann Space and Inovor Technologies collaborate on opportunities for development, test and qualification of larger mobile platforms, such as the Inovor-supplied Apogee and Australis bus that includes power, pointing, mission control and telemetry systems, as well as the Neumann Drive.
Neumann Space is bringing to market a new electric propulsion standard that will allow improved mobility in space for satellites and spacecraft, including improved safety, efficiency, useability, and the ability for it to be transported and stored fully fuelled and integrated. Having achieved flight heritage, the company is now developing a range of propulsion systems to offer a demanding market.
Inovor builds every essential subsystem from the ground up, except propulsion, providing turnkey mission solution services, from designing satellites, to manufacturing, integrating and testing, through to operations, include arranging launch. Having started with 6U platforms, they are now expanding to larger satellites with the Australis platform.
“We are now excited to become a key supplier for Inovor Technologies and look forward to offering the electric propulsion capability they need for their platform and do what we can to contribute to their success,” said Neumann Space CEO Herve Astier.
“The successful demonstration of the Neumann Drive aboard SpIRIT marked a significant step forward, and we are excited to leverage this technology across our Apogee and Australis bus platforms,” said Inovor Technologies CEO Matt Tetlow. “By combining Neumann’s innovative electric propulsion system with our advanced small satellite capabilities, we’re paving the way for even greater mission versatility and performance for our customers.”
