Project description
Compact, high-performance propulsion systems for small satellites
Small satellites and CubeSats have opened new possibilities for affordable and versatile space missions, from Earth observation to communication networks. However, their propulsion systems present challenges including low thrust, poor scalability and integration with the compact design of these satellites. Smart supercritical fluid-based micronozzles (SSFMs) offer a breakthrough solution. These miniaturised propulsion units use high-energy, non-toxic fluids to enable fine attitude control and high-agility manoeuvres. Compared to current systems, SSFMs promise up to five times higher thrust density, reduced weight by 20 % and smaller volume by 30 %. The ERC-funded STELLAR project plans to develop and test such prototypes under realistic conditions. The project will target a final technology readiness level of 4. Beyond space, SSFMs could also impact biomedical microfluidics and robotics.
Objective
The STELLAR project aims to demonstrate the proof-of-concept for a novel micropropulsion technology —Smart Supercritical Fluid-Based Micronozzles (SSFMs)— designed to meet the growing needs of CubeSats and small satellites. These miniaturized propulsion units will use supercritical fluids to deliver compact, efficient, and tunable thrust, addressing critical limitations in current systems, such as low thrust density, poor scalability, and integration complexity. SSFMs combine advanced microfabrication, integrated sensor control, and real-time flow modulation to enable both fine attitude control and high-agility maneuvers using non-toxic, high-energy fluids. Compared to state-of-the-art cold-gas or electrothermal thrusters, SSFMs are expected to deliver up to 5x higher thrust density, reduce volume by up to 30%, and cut weight by up to 20%, while also enhancing responsiveness and system autonomy. Building on results from the ERC-funded SCRAMBLE project, STELLAR will fabricate and test functional SSFM prototypes under representative pressure and thermal conditions, validating key performance metrics including thrust, impulse, and flow stability. The project will target a final technology readiness level (TRL) of 4, representing laboratory validation of the integrated prototype. Supporting activities include advanced simulations for micronozzle optimization, stakeholder engagement, and intellectual property protection. In parallel, the SSFM architecture offers cross-sector potential in biomedical microfluidics, electronics cooling, and soft robotics; domains that share similar demands for compact, thermally efficient fluidic control. By addressing both space and cross-sector challenges, STELLAR will bridge the gap between advanced microfluidics research and next-generation space technologies, enabling more agile, sustainable, and mission-adaptive propulsion for small spacecraft.
Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
- natural sciences physical sciences classical mechanics fluid mechanics microfluidics
- engineering and technology mechanical engineering vehicle engineering aerospace engineering astronautical engineering spacecraft
- engineering and technology mechanical engineering vehicle engineering aerospace engineering satellite technology
- engineering and technology electrical engineering, electronic engineering, information engineering electronic engineering sensors
- engineering and technology electrical engineering, electronic engineering, information engineering electronic engineering robotics
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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.1.1 - European Research Council (ERC)
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-ERC-POC - HORIZON ERC Proof of Concept Grants
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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) ERC-2025-POC
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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.
08034 BARCELONA
Spain
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.