Quebec company Reaction Dynamics is advancing the development of an innovative and environmentally friendly propulsion system aimed at improving satellite maneuverability, including collision avoidance, proximity operations and satellite deorbiting. This technology is designed to be more efficient and easier to handle and produce, representing a significant advancement in satellite propulsion.

Following an opportunity announcement from the Canadian Space Agency (CSA), Reaction Dynamics recently received $776,000 to support the on-orbit demonstration of its monopropellant propulsion unit, commonly called a microthruster. This funding builds on Reaction Dynamics' previous work with the CSA in the development of hybrid rocket technology, which directly contributed to these advances in space propulsion.

The demonstration will evaluate key performance parameters for space operations, such as orbit maintenance, altitude adjustments, inclination changes, collision avoidance and controlled atmospheric reentry. The ability to execute these maneuvers with greater precision and agility will help refine mission profiles and will contribute to spatial sustainability, in particular by allowing more efficient deorbitation processes.

The micropropeller is designed to improve satellite agility by providing high density pulses and, at the same time, reduce the environmental impact compared to conventional propulsion systems. It features 3D printed components and is offered as a fully integrated unit, resulting in lower production costs, reduced resource requirements and easier integration for customers. The flight experience gained from this demonstration is a crucial step towards commercialization of the technology.

The CSA's financial support for this project comes from its Space Technology Development Program, reinforcing Canada's commitment to advancing sustainable and innovative space technologies.