Capsule Space builds water-based propulsion systems for small satellites, offering safe, non-toxic, and scalable in-space mobility. Its WaterCube+ is the world's first dual-mode system combining electric and chemical thrust in a single architecture using liquid water. The company also provides mission planning software to optimize satellite operations and fuel efficiency.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
Traditional satellite propulsion systems rely on toxic, pressurized propellants that complicate integration, transportation, and launch operations. As orbital operations become more dynamic and constellations grow, operators need propulsion that is safe, scalable, and responsive without compromising performance or mission flexibility.
Solution
Capsule Space provides water-based propulsion systems that deliver sustainable in-space mobility for small satellites. Its WaterCube product line uses non-toxic liquid water as a single propellant, simplifying integration and reducing operational risk. The flagship WaterCube+ is the world's first dual-mode system, combining a resistojet for efficient long-duration maneuvers with a chemical thruster for rapid, high-thrust operations. The company also offers OrbitRev, a mission planning platform that models orbital mechanics and propulsion performance to optimize fuel use and extend mission lifetime.
Target Audience
Primary customers are commercial satellite operators, institutional space agencies, and defense organizations deploying CubeSats, SmallSats, and large constellations that require scalable, safe, and responsive propulsion.
Features
- WaterCube+ integrates both electrothermal (resistojet) and chemical propulsion in a single water-based architecture, eliminating the need for multiple propellant types
- Unpressurized, non-toxic water propellant simplifies satellite integration, transportation, and launch operations while reducing testing complexity
- Additive manufacturing and modular, off-the-shelf components enable serial production and an industry-leading lead time of 3 months from order
- Miniaturized design supports primary propulsion for CubeSats larger than 3U and primary or secondary propulsion for satellites up to 500 kg-class
- Supports orbit raising, station keeping, collision avoidance, deorbiting, formation flight, and proximity operations
- OrbitRev mission planning platform combines orbital mechanics with high-fidelity propulsion models for accurate maneuver design, simulation, and execution