Neumann Space has announced that its propulsion system has been sent into space for the first time. Named the Neumann Drive, the system uses solid metallic propellant as part of a unique propulsion technology that will enable superior mobility in space for satellites and spacecraft.
The Neumann Drive lifted off from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California at approximately 7:05 am on 13 June ACST on board a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket (Transporter 8).
The propulsion system incorporates a Thruster Unit that contains Molybdenum as the solid metallic propellant and is based on the company’s patented pulsed cathodic arc thruster technology.
The launch is the first in Neumann Space’s program of in-orbit demonstrations planned for 2023 and 2024, designed to test the performance of the Neumann Drive in space, secure valuable flight heritage, and in doing so provide increased customer confidence across the global Cube and Small satellite industry.
The company’s first launch comes at a time when the world is witnessing an exponential growth in the number of satellites being launched into space and increased regulatory and mission requirements that together are creating a strong demand for better propulsion systems.
The Neumann Drive provides significant advantages over existing propulsion systems on the market today, including improved safety, efficiency, and the ability for it to be transported and stored fully fuelled and integrated.
The Neumann Drive encaptures simplicity throughout the product lifecycle, from its design and how it is manufactured, to the ease of its integration into satellites and ultimately to in-space operations.
Neumann Space’s CEO, Herve Astier said “Today we have moved our work from the laboratory to space. This represents a significant achievement for the company and a transition in our focus from research and development to rapid commercialisation worldwide.”
“The Neumann Drive® is at the forefront of space propulsion, and our technology’s benefits are generating increased interest and engagement from the space, satellite and defence industries across the US, Europe and Australia. Flight heritage will enable us to provide greater detail about the operational performance of our product to customers and ultimately fill the gap existing in the market today.”
“We are excited to demonstrate in space the technology that the team at Neumann Space has developed and honed over the past decade. The Australian space industry has the skills and tenacity that will ensure it can continue to grow and thrive, and we look forward to continued collaboration with our local partners on our way to commercial success.” he said.
