Solar 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.

Subsidie
€ 3.999.590
2024

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:

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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

Startdatum1-9-2024
Einddatum31-8-2027
Subsidiejaar2024

Partners & Locaties

Projectpartners

  • TECHNISCHE UNIVERSITAET MUENCHENpenvoerder
  • ENDUROSAT AD
  • UNIVERSITE DU LUXEMBOURG
  • TECH TOUR GLOBAL EOOD
  • TECH TOUR EUROPE SA

Land(en)

GermanyBulgariaLuxembourgBelgium

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