SubsidieMeestersSolar for Ice to Thrust
The S4I2T project aims to develop a solar-powered water propulsion system for autonomous spacecraft, enhancing sustainability and enabling in-orbit servicing and resource utilization.
Projectdetails
Introduction
The S4I2T project seeks to develop a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solar electric water propulsion system. It aims to use water as a propellant to enable autonomous spacecraft docking and propellant refilling, promoting economic and environmental sustainability and facilitating in-orbit servicing, robotics, and in-space manufacturing.
Objectives
Furthermore, the project explores in-space water extraction and utilization from celestial bodies, contributing to a self-sustaining circular space economy based on solar energy harvesting.
Technological Elements
The three technological elements at the project's core are:
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Solar-Electric Water Electrolysis Propulsion: Water is used as a propellant and decomposed into gaseous oxygen and hydrogen, outperforming traditional chemical propulsion systems. Water's non-toxicity, versatility, and availability make it a cost-effective choice. It also utilizes solar energy for propulsion.
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Autonomous Proximity/Docking Operations and Propellant Refilling: Water simplifies in-orbit refueling, reducing launch mass and extending satellite lifetimes. This supports in-orbit servicing and assembly, enhancing the impact of solar energy harvesting.
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In-Space Water Extraction and Utilization: Water extraction from celestial bodies combined with the other technologies creates a self-sustainable space mobility infrastructure, offering long-term, Earth-independent operation.
Breakthroughs and Development
The project aims to achieve several breakthroughs in developing a novel solar-powered propulsion system, addressing technological challenges and bottlenecks. It includes the development and lab demonstration of innovative components for a Solar Electric Water Electrolysis Propulsion System, autonomous proximity/docking algorithms, and end-to-end In-Space Resource Utilization (ISRU) validation.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the S4I2T project strives to position Europe as a leader in solar-energy-powered space mobility, fostering a sustainable and self-sustaining space economy.
Financiële details & Tijdlijn
Financiële details
| Subsidiebedrag | € 3.999.590 |
| Totale projectbegroting | € 3.999.590 |
Tijdlijn
| Startdatum | 1-9-2024 |
| Einddatum | 31-8-2027 |
| Subsidiejaar | 2024 |
Partners & Locaties
Projectpartners
- TECHNISCHE UNIVERSITAET MUENCHENpenvoerder
- ENDUROSAT AD
- UNIVERSITE DU LUXEMBOURG
- TECH TOUR GLOBAL EOOD
- TECH TOUR EUROPE SA
Land(en)
Vergelijkbare projecten binnen EIC Pathfinder
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|---|---|---|---|---|
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Green Solar-to-propellant Water Propulsion
The Green SWaP project aims to develop a solar-powered system for producing hydrogen and hydrogen peroxide from water to enable eco-friendly in-space propulsion solutions.
COMPACT AND PROPELLANT-LESS ELECTRODYNAMIC TETHER SYSTEM BASED ON IN-SPACE SOLAR ENERGY
E.T.COMPACT aims to advance three in-space technologies for solar energy harvesting and green propulsion, enhancing efficiency and reducing costs for future space missions.
Ionic Propulsion in Atmosphere
This project aims to advance ionic air-breathing propulsion systems through research and development, ultimately designing a stratospheric airship to replace satellites with eco-friendly, cost-effective alternatives.
GreenH2 production from water and bioalcohols by full solar spectrum in a flow reactor
This project aims to produce green hydrogen and high-value chemicals from water and biomass using a novel solar-driven process with high efficiency and zero carbon emissions.
FLEXIBLE LIGHTWEIGHT MULTI-JUNCTION SOLAR CELLS AND MODULES WITH ENHANCED PERFORMANCE FOR EFFICIENT LIGHT HARVESTING IN OUTER SPACE
JUMP INTO SPACE aims to develop high-efficiency, lightweight all-perovskite tandem solar cells on innovative substrates for cost-effective solar energy harvesting in space applications.
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The project aims to enhance solar-driven interfacial evaporation for sustainable fresh water production by developing advanced models and structures to optimize heat and mass transport.
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