Aurora Propulsion Technologies manufactures plasma brakes and resistojet thrusters for CubeSats and SmallSats, enabling precise positioning and safe deorbiting. Their solutions enhance satellite mission profitability by extending operational lifespans and ensuring compliance with international space regulations.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
Small satellites (SmallSats) and CubeSats face challenges in precisely maintaining their position in orbit, avoiding collisions, and ensuring safe deorbiting at the end of their mission. Current solutions can be bulky, expensive, and may not provide the necessary control for increasingly complex missions. Compliance with international space regulations regarding deorbiting adds another layer of complexity.
Solution
Aurora Propulsion Technologies provides compact and scalable propulsion solutions for SmallSats and CubeSats, enabling precise positioning, collision avoidance, and controlled deorbiting. Their product line includes plasma brakes and resistojet thrusters designed to extend mission lifespans, enhance profitability, and ensure regulatory compliance. The plasma brake utilizes Coulomb drag via plasma interaction for efficient deorbiting from altitudes up to 1000km, while the resistojet thrusters facilitate station keeping, reaction wheel desaturation, and docking operations. These technologies contribute to sustainable space activities by minimizing space debris and maximizing the return on investment for satellite operators.
Target Audience
The primary target audience includes SmallSat and CubeSat manufacturers and operators, space agencies, and organizations requiring precise in-space propulsion and deorbiting solutions.
Features
- **Plasma Brake:** Deorbits satellites up to 1000kg using Coulomb drag with a microtether.
- **Resistojet Thrusters:** Water-based propulsion system for collision avoidance and precise maneuvering.
- **ARM-C (Collision Avoidance Unit):** Microscale propulsion system designed to safeguard CubeSats and SmallSats from collisions.
- **Scalability:** Single thruster unit suitable for satellites up to 25kg, with the ability to multiply units for larger satellites.
- Solutions for both end-of-life deorbiting and active in-orbit maneuvering.