The Adelaide-based company’s ND-50 is their latest model of electric thruster that utilises solid metal as fuel.
The system has been commissioned following an orbit demonstration mission by UK company Surrey Satellite Technology (SST), marking a key point of growth for the company, and Australia’s wider presence in the space industry.
With this backing, Hervé Astier, Neumann Space’s CEO, said that the company is prepared to commence full, operational-ready commercial production of the ND-50.
“We are now focused on scaling production to support allied defence and commercial customers who require reliable, responsive propulsion solutions in volume and with a short lead time,” Astier said.
Adapted from the company’s original ‘Neumann Drive’ design, funding from the Australian Space Agency (ASA) allowed the propulsion system to advance in an expanded production capacity.
“The Australian Space Agency is pleased to see the Neumann Drive system continue to evolve, attracting international attention and powering more space missions,” head of the ASA, Enrico Palermo, said.
“From enabling the qualification of the original thruster through our almost $7 million investment in the SpIRIT satellite mission, to investing in Neumann’s inhouse Australian production facilities, we are proud supporters of the Neumann Drive.”
As Australia’s presence in the space industry continues to grow, SST Australian lead Clive Oates said that this underscores the increasingly prevalent nature of national tech advancement.
“This mission also reflects our commitment to engaging with Australia’s industrial base and supporting the capability being developed across its space sector,” he said.
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