Inovor and Neumann combine for in-space satellite propulsion

Neumann Space and satellite manufacturer Inovor Technologies have successfully completed delivery of the Neumann Drive in-space electric propulsion system (pictured) with Inovor’s Apogee satellite platform ready for spacecraft integration and launch.

The Neumann Drive is powered by a unique solid metallic propellant and is aimed at positioning CubeSats and SmallSats in space.

The latest milestone represents the first time an Australian electric propulsion product has qualified for integration on a satellite and signals the progress that both companies have made together towards increasing the capability and commercial viability of Australia’s space industry.

According to the companies they have made ready for flight heritage of an Australian made satellite platform with electric propulsion, de-risking their integrated product for the global market.

Neumann Space CEO Herve Astier said the two companies had the real potential to significantly disrupt the way satellite propulsion is done today.

Astier said: “The Neumann Drive offers a step change in mobility to the global satellite market, and this milestone represents an important step forward in ensuring that this critical technology is able to serve the growing need for better propulsion in space.

“Proving the performance of the Neumann Drive in space will enable our company to continue the solid progress we are making to commercialise our products.”

Founder and CEO of Inovor Technologies Dr Matthew Tetlow said his company’s Apogee satellite platform was a high-performance spacecraft requiring a highly efficient propulsion system.

Dr Tetlow said: “Both our products are Australian-designed and made, demonstrating the sovereign capability that exists within our nation’s space sector, and the potential for growth of the industry.

“Continuing to prove and test our industry’s platforms and capability in space is essential to progress.”

The Neumann Drive selected for the Apogee satellite is its CubeSat Product Class incorporating a Thruster Unit that contains Molybdenum as the solid metallic propellant.

The Neumann Drive’ propellant rod can be made (on Earth and in space) of any solid conductive metals and alloys.

Further reading:
KANYINI SATELLITE PASSES CRITICAL REVIEW

Picture: Neumann Space