Electromagnetic pulse drives Satellite fuel from the sun

Newton's third law applies in space. But a new propulsion system is based on a principle in which thrust can be generated without leaving mass behind. A system that rethinks the rules and seemingly liberates satellites from the limits of classical physics.

Satellites have traditionally relied on systems that carry and eject fuel for their maneuverability. This principle has dominated space technology for decades, but has significant limitations. Propellant takes up space, increases mass and requires a complex interplay of tanks, pipes and valves. When the fuel reserves are used up, a satellite's ability to maintain or correct its orbit inevitably comes to an end - and with it, as a rule, the mission.

A new approach completely dispenses with conventional propellants and thus breaks with this basic assumption of space travel. It is based on the direct conversion of electrical energy into thrust without ejecting mass.

The functional principle of an electromagnetic drive system

The drive developed by Genergo uses controlled electromagnetic pulses to generate a directed force. Inside the system, electrodynamic fields and moving components interact with each other to produce a measurable acceleration or deceleration. The force is generated exclusively from the precise control of electromagnetic processes within a completely closed system.

As no reaction mass is ejected, the operating time does not depend on the propellant carried, but solely on the electrical energy that the satellite can provide. Solar panels and batteries provide sufficient power for this, as the drive requires only a moderate amount of energy. It requires no tanks, no pipes and no pressure vessels. At the same time, the satellite remains maneuverable for the entire duration of the mission.

Validation in orbit and technological maturity

Three generations of the system were tested in real space missions between 2022 and 2023. The drives were each used on board the ION Satellite Carrier from D-Orbit. This resulted in over 700 hours of operating time, spread over several activation cycles and accompanied by extensive data analysis.

The tests repeatedly showed that the dynamics of the host satellite changed measurably after the drive was switched on. Accelerations and decelerations could be objectively recorded and unequivocally attributed to the activation of the system.

With these results, the technology has reached a maturity level corresponding to TRL 7/8. In this area, a system has been verified under real conditions and is about to be ready for commercial use.

Security, sustainability and system architecture

Dispensing with fuel eliminates several of the biggest risks of conventional drive systems. Without pressure vessels, valves or pipes, there is no risk of explosion or leakage. There is also no ecological or toxic impact, as no hazardous substances are used.

The system does not lead to any contamination of the orbital environment during the entire mission. There are also no additional hazards or residues during re-entry. This approach enables a propulsion system that is both technically and ecologically a very clean solution.

Significance for future satellite architectures

A functioning electromagnetic impulse drive without reaction mass allows mission designs that were previously limited by propellant quantities and system complexity. Longer mission times, more flexible orbit control and more efficient use of launch weight become realistic. (mr)