Safran Defense & Space, Inc. (Safran DSI), through its Space Solutions business unit, has been selected by AstroForge to manufacture and deliver two EPS®X00 electric propulsion systems for the company’s upcoming Vestri asteroid mission, scheduled to launch in early 2026.
AstroForge is pioneering in the field of asteroid mining and focuses on extracting valuable resources from asteroids, such as platinum group metals (PGMs) including platinum, palladium, rhodium, and iridium. These materials are rare and in high demand on Earth. Sourcing the resources from space offers the potential for significant supply and environmental advantages over traditional mining.
Safran DSI will provide two complete EPS®X00 systems, each comprising the PPS®X00 thruster, a Power Processing Unit, and a Fluid Management System. These advanced propulsion systems will support AstroForge’s mission to rendezvous with[1] and analyze a target asteroid in deep space.
Safran DSI is also expanding its U.S. manufacturing capabilities with a new facility under construction in Parker, Colorado. The site will produce EPS®X00 units domestically, with initial deliveries expected in the fourth quarter of 2026.
This achievement is a key step for Safran, reaffirming its commitment to supporting innovative New Space companies.
We selected Safran Electric Propulsion after witnessing a successful test firing of their EPS®X00 propulsion system at their Normandy (France) factory,” said Robyn Ringuette, Chief Operating Officer of AstroForge. “Many people claim to have a product nowadays, but we were totally impressed by Safran’s 30 years’ experience in electric propulsion, witnessing the successful test fire, and touring the robust manufacturing facility. After all, this is the company that already went all the way to the moon using electric propulsion.”
Pier M. Roviera, President of Space Solutions at Safran DSI, said, “Being selected for a cutting-edge New Space mission underscores the reliability and innovation of our technology and our team’s expertise. Also, there’s real energy and pride in being part of a team pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, such as asteroid mining.”
