The UK Space Agency has awarded a substantial grant to advance satellite refuelling technologies, marking a significant milestone in sustainable space exploration.
- Magdrive and Orbit Fab have signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on space refuelling solutions.
- Magdrive’s SuperMagdrive thruster aims to utilise space-sourced metal as a sustainable propellant.
- The funding is part of the National Space Innovation Programme, supporting innovative space technologies.
- This initiative signals a strategic move towards more efficient and economical deep-space missions.
The UK Space Agency has allocated a notable £1 million grant to foster advancements in satellite refuelling technologies. This funding is awarded to Magdrive and Orbit Fab, two companies pioneering in space technology, to enhance the sustainability and viability of space missions.
Magdrive and Orbit Fab have entered a memorandum of understanding (MoU) focusing on the development of technologies that can refuel satellites while in orbit. This partnership is centred on the innovative SuperMagdrive thruster by Magdrive, which offers a propulsion system capable of being refuelled with metal found in space environments.
The SuperMagdrive thruster, a solid metal propulsion system, represents an ambitious step in making space technology more sustainable. By utilising resources found in space, such as metal, these companies aim to reduce reliance on Earth-bound supplies, thus enhancing logistical efficiency and reducing costs.
This financial support is a component of the National Space Innovation Programme (NSIP) under the UK Space Agency, which aims to promote cutting-edge technologies in the space sector through strategic investments. The initiative reflects a broader commitment by the UK to lead in space innovation and sustainability.
According to Mark Stokes, CEO of Magdrive, the collaboration with Orbit Fab is crucial for the vision of sustainable space travel. The technologies being developed could lay the groundwork for more ambitious space missions by increasing both efficiency and reach.
The partnership and grant were announced at the 75th International Astronautical Congress in Milan, underscoring the international emphasis and collaboration in space exploration advancements.
This collaboration and investment highlight a strategic pursuit of sustainable and economically viable space missions.
