Neumann Space, a leader of in-space electric propulsion has successfully completed integrating its world leading propulsion system, called the Neumann Drive®, onto Skykraft’s Australian designed and manufactured satellite.
This marks the first time the Neumann Drive®, whose unique propulsion technology uses solid metallic propellant, has been integrated onto a satellite. The satellite is now undergoing final testing before being shipped to the U.S. for a scheduled launch in mid-2023.
Neumann Space’s CEO, Herve Astier said, “In the rapidly evolving new space economy there is a growing need for better propulsion. Whether it is deorbiting at the end of a mission’s life, navigating into the most effective orbit, or maneuvering away from growing space junk, we are seeing an increasing demand for our products.”
“We are pleased to be working with Skykraft, a fellow Australian space company working to commercialzse technology for the benefit of global customers. We look forward to demonstrating in space the sovereign capability that Neumann Space has developed, and the benefits of using a propulsion system that is safer, more efficient and easier to operate,” he said.
Dr. Michael Frater, CEO of Skykraft added, “Skykraft is pleased to be able to carry payloads like the Neumann Drive® to enable them to achieve crucial space heritage. Through this activity, Skykraft supports innovation in the broader Australian space community and has the opportunity to work with our world leading companies.”
Neumann Space designs and manufactures propulsion systems for CubeSats and SmallSats, and it is its CubeSat Product Class that will be carried on the Skykraft satellite. 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. Neumann Space’s team of engineers based in Adelaide, South Australia, continue to refine the company’s products, and have now finalised the design and commenced manufacturing of its next generation Neumann Drive®.
