Benchmark Space Systems Fires Up Metal Plasma and Bi-Prop Thruster Production

 March 14, 2023

Benchmark Space Systems  has signed contracts for nearly two dozen new electric metal plasma thrusters (MPTs), with some set to play a key role in upcoming, unnamed in-space servicing, assembly and manufacturing (ISAM) satellite docking demonstration missions.

The bulk of Benchmark’s first MPT orders will be delivered this year, signaling intensifying demand for hybrid propulsion capabilities aboard commercial and government missions in space. Just six months into the acquisition of Alameda Applied Sciences Corp.’s AASC’s MPT technology, Benchmark has adapted the unique electric propulsion system to meet a broad range of in-space mission applications, including ISAM, refueling, and precision docking and spacecraft inspections.

Benchmark is fresh off highly successful test chamber firings of its metal plasma thrusters, with a variety of metal propellants, and hot fire tests of its 2 Newton Lynx thruster, in preparation for a range of chemical, electric and hybrid powered missions. Engineer Matt Walton has led the development of the Lynx thruster, a smaller-scaled version of the space-proven 22 Newton ‘Ocelot’. As the Ocelot thrusters perform critical orbit raise operations in space, the smaller Lynx is being readied for 2023 production deliveries through a robust qualification campaign at Benchmark’s Pleasanton, CA facility.

Benchmark combines the electric metal plasma thrusters with its high-test peroxide (HTP)-powered chemical propulsion systems to provide satellite and mission operators with go-fast and precision mobility capabilities in a non-toxic hybrid solution capable of enabling everything from station keeping and pointing of mesh networks to collision avoidance maneuvers. The company plans to produce at least 200 of its Lynx bi-propellant (HTP + fuel) thrusters this year to meet increasing demand for low Earth orbit (LEO) and cislunar missions.

“Benchmark is seeing huge demand for our chemical and hybrid propulsion systems for a variety of missions and maneuvers, including a significant increase in the number of collision avoidance moves satellite operators must make due to growing traffic in busy orbits,” said Ryan McDevitt, Benchmark Space Systems CEO. “Operators no longer have to choose between electric or chemical propulsion and possibly compromise their ultimate mission objectives. Benchmark hybrid offers mobility without compromise.”

Benchmark continues to innovate and collaborate in the assessment and thoughtful sourcing and integration of new propellants to meet both technical and geopolitical requirements, especially in support of government operations. The accessibility of HTP and the team’s proven ability to rapidly integrate and deploy new high-thrust, long burn duration engines.