Recent research highlights the potential of using water as a propellant for ion drives, marking a significant step towards more sustainable and efficient space exploration. This innovation promises to reduce mission costs and leverage the abundance of water resources in space.
A study published in the Journal of Electric Propulsion, led by Jesús Manuel Muñoz Tejeda from Imperial College London, explores the use of water-fueled Hall-effect thrusters (HETs). HETs, similar to ion drives, use accelerated ions to propel spacecraft. While not suitable for launching from Earth, they excel in in-space propulsion.
Pale Blue, a Japanese startup, is set to demonstrate its water-based propulsion systems on two missions in 2025, partnering with D-Orbit. Their 1U+ Water Ion Thruster will be tested on D-Orbit’s ION Satellite Carrier in June and October, showcasing the practicality and environmental benefits of water propellant. This system offers a total impulse of 7,000 Ns, enabling multiple on-orbit maneuvers for satellites.
Advantages of Water-Fueled Systems
Water is a readily available, non-toxic, and easily stored propellant. Its synergy with spacecraft systems like life support and thermal cooling makes it an attractive option for long-duration missions. The development of water-fueled ion drives could revolutionize space travel by reducing propellant needs and utilizing resources found in space.