Project description
A sustainable solution for space debris
In the vast expanse of low Earth orbit, space debris poses a mounting threat to the safety of satellite missions. The surge in satellite launches, with over 3 500 expected in 2027, exacerbates the issue. The EIC-funded Aurora Plasma Brake (APB) project, by Aurora Propulsion Tech, is developing a quick and safe deorbiting solution for SmallSats (i.e. between 1 and 500 kg). Specifically, the project seeks to industrialise an innovative zero-propellant microtether-based solution (the APB) for the rapid and secure deorbiting of SmallSats. This technology can work in tandem with existing products, including water-based resistojet thrusters, to simplify deployment and enhance collision avoidance capabilities. Aurora aims to meet the demands of the growing New Space industry, while aligning with regulations for sustainable space use.
Objective
Aurora Propulsion Tech supplies satellite manufacturers with reliable solutions for propulsion, attitude & orbit control, collision avoidance & end-of-life deorbiting. We aim to enable effective satellite (1-500 kg) missions ensuring that they are carried out safely in low Earth orbit regions and don’t result in space debris.
In this EIC Accelerator project, we focus on the industrialization of Aurora Plasma Brake (APB)—a novel patented zero propellant microtether-based solution for quick & safe deorbiting of SmallSats. APB can be complemented by our existing products such as water-based resistojet thrusters ARM (to simplify deployment) & ARM derivatives (to provide collision avoidance capabilities).
Our technology is designed for cost-effective, large-scale production to meet the demands of the growing New Space industry (with 3,500+ satellites to be launched in 2027) & remove the barriers for new entrants. It is also aligned with the upcoming new regulation on sustainable space use.
Fields of science
Programme(s)
- HORIZON.3.1 - The European Innovation Council (EIC) Main Programme
Funding Scheme
HORIZON-EIC-ACC-BF - HORIZON EIC Accelerator Blended FinanceCoordinator
02150 Espoo
Finland
The organization defined itself as SME (small and medium-sized enterprise) at the time the Grant Agreement was signed.