MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., - Muon Space, a climate observation satellite company in Mountain View, California, needed an electric propulsion system for its next-generation ESPA-class spacecraft. They found their solution from Exotrail in Massy, France. Muon will supply Exotrail with five of its spaceware electric propulsion systems to propel the next generation of its ESPA-class spacecraft currently in development at Muon Space’s manufacturing facility in Mountain View, California. These units are part of the next phase of Muon Space’s Climate Constellation, which will use a new generation of sensors to monitor Earth’s climate and ecosystems.
Muon Space spacecraft will use Exotrail’s high thrust spaceware brand micro propulsion product to perform orbit raising and anomaly phasing, as well as orbit maintenance and collision avoidance. Exotrail’s spaceware product will additionally enable efficient spacecraft deorbiting at the end of operational life.
This mission sequence, which is becoming a standard concept of operations for operators in low Earth orbit (LEO), will leverage the full capability of the spaceware micro propulsion system, including optimized deployment as well as sustainable use of space and respect of the national and international regulations and good practices.
Exotrail’s spaceware portfolio, with nano, micro, mini and cluster product configurations, is a flexible, high-thrust electric Hall-effect propulsion system for satellites ranging from 10 to 1,000 kg. With its high thrust capability and modularity, spaceware drastically improves satellite deployment, increases service performance, and helps reduce space pollution.
“We are very excited to work with Exotrail for our first constellation,” said Paul Day, COO of Muon Space. “We are confident in Exotrail’s capability to deliver the modules on time and with the right level of quality for our missions. With its industrial ramp-up, we see Exotrail as a strong partner that will enable our constellation deployment.”
“The Exotrail team is extremely happy and proud to be chosen by Muon Space,” said Jean-Luc Maria, Exotrail’s CEO. “Their climate monitoring mission is well aligned with Exotrail’s core values of sustainability and the virtuous use of space, as well as environmental awareness. Through this partnership, Muon Space and Exotrail are addressing two significant challenges facing humanity today: climate change and minimizing space debris!”
