San Francisco-based Rubicon Space Systems has transitioned its Velox 5-newton ASCENT monopropellant thruster into the production phase following the successful completion of hot-fire testing, according to SpaceNews. This milestone sets the stage for the propulsion system's planned deployment in orbital missions scheduled for 2027.

Propulsion Development Milestones

The development program demonstrated performance parameters that exceeded the company's initial design expectations. The Velox thruster utilizes the ASCENT (Advanced Spacecraft Energetic Non-Toxic) green monopropellant, which is engineered as a safer, higher-performing alternative to traditional hydrazine. The 5-newton thrust class is optimized for small-to-medium satellites requiring precise orbital maneuvering, collision avoidance, and deorbiting capabilities.

Regulatory and Technical Context

Green propellants like ASCENT—originally developed by the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory and utilized in NASA's Green Propellant Infusion Mission—are increasingly favored by regulatory bodies, including the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). By avoiding hazardous materials like hydrazine, spacecraft integration costs are significantly decreased, and launch pad operations are streamlined because handling ASCENT requires less complex safety infrastructure.

Why It Matters

The transition of the Velox 5-newton thruster to production highlights a critical shift toward non-toxic propulsion in commercial space flight. As orbit congestion increases, satellite operators face stricter deorbiting mandates from agencies like the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). High-performance green monopropellant systems offer the necessary delta-v for compliance without the heavy regulatory burden and handling risks associated with toxic heritage propellants, positioning Rubicon to capture a growing share of the smallsat propulsion market.