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Benchmark Space Systems, a propulsion company, has announced the opening of a new 40,000 square foot production facility in Burlington, Vermont. The expansion aims to increase manufacturing capacity and meet customer demands for propulsion systems. The company recently closed a million Series B round, which will be used to invest in the new facility. The headquarters and manufacturing facility will remain in Burlington, near its previous location.

The new facility will enable Benchmark Space Systems to fulfill its existing backlog of orders. With over 1,000 thrusters to be built and tested, the company needs to bolster its manufacturing capabilities. Benchmark’s public customers include The Exploration Company and Space Forge. The company’s CEO, Ryan McDevitt, emphasized the importance of timing in relation to customer demands. Other companies in the industry are rapidly expanding their manufacturing capabilities, and Benchmark must be ready to keep up.

In addition to the facility expansion, Benchmark Space Systems is also introducing a new autopilot feature called SmartAIM. This onboard software control solution will be integrated into the company’s chemical, electric, and hybrid propulsion systems. SmartAIM functions as an “autopilot” for satellites, enabling autonomous space maneuvers. Benchmark is partnering with software company Kayhan Space to optimize maneuver planning through the integration of its Pathfinder spaceflight safety software.

Benchmark Space Systems is aiming to address industry conversations surrounding in-space mobility, collision avoidance, and responsible space usage. The company believes that its propulsion systems, coupled with the new SmartAIM feature, will contribute to safer and more efficient operations in space. By abstracting propulsion commands from customers and improving propulsion efficiency, SmartAIM aims to reduce the need for manual intervention and prevent failures caused by improper handling of valves and heating.

To facilitate better production flow, testing will now be conducted in-house at the new facility. This end-to-end approach will enhance efficiency and enable a more streamlined manufacturing process. Benchmark recently underwent some restructuring, with approximately 15% of its team being laid off. This was part of the company’s shift from research and development (R&D) to a production focus. Benchmark plans to allocate its resources more effectively to meet the growing demand for propulsion systems.

Overall, Benchmark Space Systems’ facility expansion and introduction of the SmartAIM autopilot feature demonstrate the company’s commitment to meeting customer needs and advancing in the propulsion industry.

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