Project description
Advanced electrospray propulsion technology to transform space exploration
Current propulsion systems have several weaknesses, such as being bulky, costly and fuel-inefficient. These issues limit the effectiveness of small satellites in low Earth orbit as well as reduce mission diversity and longevity. With increasing deployment of small satellite constellations for communications and space observations, addressing these limitations is urgent. The EU-funded ION-X project aims to develop a cutting-edge propulsion system using unique ionic liquid electrospray technology. This should offer exceptional thrust and fuel efficiency and help adjust performance during flight. Moving from demonstration to actual use, ION-X’s technology will greatly improve satellite missions and transform space exploration.
Objective
Deficiencies in propulsion systems—compactness, power, cost-effectiveness, fuel efficiency, scalability, and adaptability—curtail the potential of small satellites in Low Earth Orbit (LEO), hindering mission diversity and longevity. The imminent surge in the deployment of small satellite constellations to fulfill communication, observation, and scientific needs, underscores the urgency of addressing these limitations. ION-X's ambition is to craft the most efficient propulsion system for orbital assets. Our patented ionic liquid electrospray technology with unmatched thrust, ISP, and fuel efficiency, enables the versatility of configuring thrust-to-ISP ratios in-flight, enduring life durations, and vectoring boosts in orbit. ION-X’s transition from technological demonstration to on-orbit operation and, subsequently, market availability will revolutionize the space propulsion paradigm by fortifying satellite mission capabilities and reshaping the course of space exploration.
Keywords
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.3.1 - The European Innovation Council (EIC)
MAIN PROGRAMME
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Topic(s)
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-EIC-ACC-BF - HORIZON EIC Accelerator Blended Finance
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Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) HORIZON-EIC-2023-ACCELERATOR-01
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
92100 BOULOGNE-BILLANCOURT
France
The organization defined itself as SME (small and medium-sized enterprise) at the time the Grant Agreement was signed.
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.