The UK Space Agency’s investment signals a significant step toward sustainable space technology.
- A £1m grant has been awarded to Magdrive and Orbit Fab for satellite refuelling solutions.
- The collaboration focuses on Magdrive’s innovative SuperMagdrive thruster.
- Utilising in-space metal resources aims to enhance sustainability and economy in space travel.
- The initiative was highlighted at the 75th International Astronautical Congress.
The UK Space Agency has taken a decisive step in advancing sustainable space exploration by awarding a £1 million grant to Magdrive and Orbit Fab. This funding is aimed at developing cutting-edge solutions for refuelling satellites, a move that could significantly alter the economics and environmental impact of future space missions.
Central to this collaboration is Magdrive’s SuperMagdrive thruster. This proprietary solid metal propulsion system is designed to be refuelled using metal sourced from within space itself. By tapping into in-space resources, the technology promises to make space missions not only more viable but also more eco-friendly.
The partnership between Magdrive and Orbit Fab was formalised through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) that underscores their shared commitment to creating a sustainable frontier in space technology. Mark Stokes, CEO of Magdrive, elucidated, “This MoU with Orbit Fab is an important step towards our vision of powering more sustainable space transport. By combining our expertise in propulsion systems with their innovations in refuelling infrastructure, we’re laying the groundwork for more ambitious, efficient space missions.”
Oxfordshire-based Magdrive, a pioneer in spacecraft propulsion technology, and American firm Orbit Fab, known for its innovations in in-space refuelling services, are at the forefront of this initiative. The focus on using metals sourced in space for propulsion signifies a potential paradigm shift in how deep-space missions could be conducted. Stokes further stated, “With the development of the SuperMagdrive and the ability to refuel using metal propellants sourced in space, we’re moving closer to making deep-space missions not only possible but sustainable. This is just the beginning, and we’re looking forward to seeing the impact our work can make on the space industry in the future.”
This promising development was announced at the prestigious 75th International Astronautical Congress in Milan, drawing attention to the innovative strides being made in the field of space exploration. Industry experts view this as a progressive step towards reducing the ecological and financial costs associated with space travel.
The collaboration signifies a pivotal advancement in sustainable space exploration, promising substantial benefits for future missions.
