Imagine a space engine that uses super-cooled magnets to push satellites much harder and longer than current tech allows. It's like replacing a standard battery with a high-performance power plant to move heavy loads in orbit. This makes it possible to tow away space junk or move massive data centers in space without running out of fuel.
Current electric propulsion systems lack the power and lifetime needed for heavy-duty space tasks. Conventional magnets are too heavy and inefficient, making on-orbit servicing and debris removal commercially unviable.
A 5 kW AF-MPD thruster prototype integrating High-Temperature Superconductor (HTS) coils and a customized Power Processing Unit (PPU).
If you are an OSAM provider dealing with the high fuel cost of moving heavy satellites — this project developed a 5 kW AF-MPD thruster that uses high-temperature superconductors to increase thrust and lifetime. This allows for more efficient assembly and manufacture of structures in space.
If you are a debris removal company dealing with the difficulty of capturing and moving heavy orbital junk — this project developed a compact and lightweight propulsion system. It provides the high power density needed to maneuver large masses of waste safely.
If you are a cloud operator dealing with the need to maintain massive server clusters in orbit — this project developed a scalable and flexible propulsion solution. It ensures the long-term stability and positioning of high-power infrastructure in cis-lunar space.
Based on available project data, specific pricing is not provided, but the project aims to improve cost-effectiveness compared to current electric propulsion technologies.
Yes, AF-MPD thrusters are described as a scalable technology specifically suited for high-power operations due to their high thrust levels and power densities.
Based on available project data, the project is led by NSS, a start-up commercializing HTS applications, but specific licensing terms are not detailed.
The project is developing a customized Power Processing Unit (PPU) leveraging flight-qualified HET PPUs to ensure compatibility with spacecraft discharges.
The project period runs from 2023-06-01 to 2025-11-30, aiming to advance the prototype toward flight feasibility by the end of the term.
The consortium is heavily weighted toward commercialization with a 60% industry ratio, including 3 industrial partners and 1 SME. The presence of Airbus as both a supplier and potential first adopter indicates a strong market-pull strategy, while the involvement of the University of Stuttgart and University of Twente provides the necessary cryogenic and HTS expertise.
Contact the University of Stuttgart regarding the SUPREME project coordination.
Contact us to connect with the SUPREME consortium for HTS propulsion licensing.
