Imagine a tiny car in space that usually runs out of gas quickly and can't steer well. This project builds a super-efficient engine that uses a special liquid to push the satellite more effectively. It allows these small satellites to change direction and move out of the way of space junk, making them last much longer.
Small satellites in LEO suffer from limited fuel efficiency and maneuverability, leading to shorter lifespans and higher collision risks. Current systems lack the compactness and scalability needed for the upcoming surge in massive satellite constellations.
The HALO-100X thruster, an ionic liquid electrospray propulsion system capable of in-flight thrust-to-ISP ratio configuration.
If you are a constellation operator dealing with the risk of collisions in LEO — this project developed a patented ionic liquid electrospray system that enables orbital maneuvering and collision avoidance. This ensures your assets stay operational longer and comply with EU and US FCC de-orbit regulations.
If you are a monitoring firm dealing with limited mission durations due to fuel constraints — this project developed the HALO-100X thruster that provides unmatched fuel efficiency. This allows your satellites to maintain precise orbits for longer periods to collect more data.
If you are a transport provider dealing with the need for adaptable thrust-to-ISP ratios in-flight — this project developed a scalable propulsion system that supports various commercial and scientific applications. This increases the versatility of your orbital transportation services.
Based on available project data, specific pricing is not disclosed, but the objective is to create a cost-effective system to address the limitations of current small satellite propulsion.
The project is transitioning from technological demonstration to on-orbit operation and market availability, specifically developing the HALO-100X thruster for small satellite constellations.
The system is based on patented ionic liquid electrospray technology developed by ION-X.
It enables safer de-orbiting to meet shorter de-orbit timeframes mandated by the EU and the US Federal Communications Commission.
The project period runs from 2024-07-01 to 2026-06-30, with an initial prototype already operated in an ESA-sponsored mission.
The project is led by a single French SME, ION-X SAS, which holds 100% of the industry ratio. This lean structure suggests a fast-track approach to commercialization, focusing entirely on the internal development and deployment of their proprietary HALO-100X technology without the complexity of a multi-partner academic consortium.
Contact ION-X SAS in France regarding the HALO-100X thruster
Contact us to explore licensing or partnership opportunities with ION-X.
