SAN FRANCISCO — Exciting news in the world of space propulsion! Rubicon Space Systems has recently secured a series of contracts worth approximately $6 million. These contracts are for the delivery of ASCENT thrusters to both NASA and the Air Force Research Laboratory in 2024. This is a major achievement for Rubicon and a testament to their expertise in ASCENT-based propulsion.
According to Daniel Cavender, the Director of Rubicon, these contracts are a clear indication of the immense interest and trust that NASA and AFRL have in Rubicon. They see Rubicon as a champion of ASCENT-based propulsion and are eager to advance this technology further.
ASCENT is a non-toxic propellant that was developed by the Air Force Research Laboratory. Its unique properties make it an ideal choice for space missions.
The “Holy Grail” of Propulsion
One of the contracts secured by Rubicon is a $5.1 million award from the AFRL. This contract involves the manufacturing of 10 one-newton thrusters and the qualification of these thrusters for spaceflight. This is a significant milestone for Rubicon and a step closer to achieving the “holy grail” of propulsion.
In addition to the AFRL contract, Rubicon has also been awarded contracts by NASA Marshall Space Flight Center. These contracts further highlight the recognition and trust that Rubicon has gained in the industry.
Rubicon Wins $630,000 Contract to Develop Dual-Mode Propulsion System for NASA
Rubicon, a leading aerospace company, has secured a $630,000 contract from NASA to develop the chemical component of a dual-mode propulsion system for an upcoming mission. This innovative system will combine both chemical and electric thrusters, drawing propellant from a single tank. The goal is to harness the high-thrust benefits of the chemical side while also leveraging the high efficiency of electric propulsion elements. Many experts consider dual-mode propulsion systems to be the holy grail of propulsion technology.
Advantages of Dual-Mode Propulsion Systems
Dual-mode propulsion systems offer a unique combination of high-thrust capability and high efficiency. By integrating both chemical and electric thrusters, these systems provide the best of both worlds. The chemical thrusters deliver powerful thrust, ideal for quick acceleration and maneuvering, while the electric thrusters offer exceptional efficiency for long-duration missions. This versatility makes dual-mode propulsion systems highly desirable for a wide range of space missions.
Rubicon’s ASCENT Thruster Development
In addition to the dual-mode propulsion system, Rubicon is also working on the development of a 110-newton ASCENT thruster for NASA Marshall. This project, funded by a $280,000 Small Business Innovation Research Phase 3 award, is significant because it represents the highest thrust class ASCENT-based thruster ordered to date. The ASCENT thruster technology has been in development since the 1990s and has already undergone successful flight testing on NASA’s Green Propellant Infusion Mission in 2019.
ASCENT: Performance and Safety
ASCENT, the propellant used in Rubicon’s thrusters, offers exceptional performance and safety compared to traditional hydrazine-based propulsion systems. It has been extensively tested and proven to exceed the capabilities of hydrazine-based alternatives. This makes ASCENT a highly attractive choice for space missions where performance and safety are paramount.
However, the choice of propellant ultimately depends on the specific requirements of each mission. Rubicon’s expertise lies in providing innovative propulsion solutions tailored to the unique needs of their customers. With their ongoing development efforts and groundbreaking technologies, Rubicon continues to push the boundaries of propulsion systems in the aerospace industry.
