Advanced Electric Propulsion Technology by Eos Space: Extending Space Missions with Increased Scalability
Eos Space Technologies Developing Revolutionary Electric Propulsion System for Small Satellites
Eos Space Technologies, a UK-based startup founded by researchers Dr Moe Ahmed, Dr Szymon Dworski, and Thomas Munro-O'Brien, is developing an advanced electric propulsion system aimed at significantly improving the operational lifespans and cost efficiency of small satellites.
The company's propulsion system, Lampos, leverages innovations in electric rocket technologies designed specifically for the small satellite market. This technology promises modularity and efficiency enhancements that can extend mission durations while reducing the total cost of ownership and operational expenses.
Electric Propulsion System Focus
Eos Space Technologies is working on electric thrusters and subsystems tailored for small spacecraft, which typically face severe weight, volume, and power constraints. Electric propulsion offers higher efficiency compared to chemical propulsion, allowing longer mission life through efficient fuel use.
Improving Satellite Lifespans
By integrating more efficient propulsion technologies, Eos aims to enable satellites to perform more extended orbital maneuvers and station-keeping. This can lead to longer service periods in orbit, counteracting the natural orbital decay that limits lifespan.
Cost Reduction
Electric systems consume less propellant, meaning satellites can be lighter or carry additional payloads, thus optimizing launch costs. Modular propulsion subsystems are being designed to be replicable and flexible across multiple satellite platforms, driving down development and production costs through economies of scale.
Fleet-Based Development Model
Eos Space Technologies is aligning with space industry trends by adopting a fleet-based development model. This strategy helps spread development risks, reduce per-unit costs, and accelerate technology adoption.
While the detailed technical progress and deployment timeline of Eos Space Technologies’ propulsion systems were not fully elaborated, it is clear that the company is positioned within an industry context emphasizing innovative, efficient electric propulsion for small satellites, contributing to the broader goal of more sustainable and cost-effective space operations.
Industry Support and Future Plans
Eos Space Technologies has received two letters of support from future customers and is anticipating obtaining IP waivers from the universities of Surrey and Southampton shortly. The company is also in the late stages of a grant application to the European Space Agency Business Incubation Centre at Harwell, which could bring funding by the end of 2025.
The remaining £2.5 million will be sought upon delivery and successful functional testing of the Engineering Qualification Model (EQM). Eos Space Technologies is seeking investors experienced in scaling space startups globally and supporting the development of a strong intellectual property pipeline.
Potential investors can contact Eos Space Technologies through their website www.eos-stl.co.uk. The company is seeking an initial investment of £500,000 as part of a total £3 million raise.
By 2030, predictions estimate over 50,000 satellites will be orbiting the Earth. With the growing demand for propulsion systems in small satellites (under 1,200 kg), particularly in the micro (50-200 kg) and mini (up to 500 kg) classes, Eos Space Technologies' innovative propulsion system could play a significant role in the future of space operations.
- Eos Space Technologies, a UK-based startup, is developing an innovative electric propulsion system, Lampos, for small satellites, aiming to improve their operational lifespans and cost efficiency.
- The company's electric propulsion focuses on developing electric thrusters and subsystems tailored for small spacecraft, offering higher efficiency compared to chemical propulsion for longer mission life.
- By integrating more efficient propulsion technologies, Eos aims to enable satellites to perform extended orbital maneuvers, reducing the total cost of ownership and operational expenses.
- Eos Space Technologies is seeking investors experienced in scaling space startups globally and supporting the development of a strong intellectual property pipeline.
- With the growing demand for propulsion systems in small satellites, particularly in the micro and mini classes, Eos Space Technologies' innovative propulsion system could play a significant role in the future of space operations, potentially operating among over 50,000 satellites expected to be orbiting Earth by 2030.
