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The number of satellites orbiting the Earth continues to rise, with an estimated 14,000 new satellites set to be launched by the end of the decade. This increase translates to approximately 9,000 tons of space debris, a growing concern that has prompted the United States to issue new regulations requiring satellites to have a capability to move out of the way after five years from the end of their missions. To address this issue and improve satellite propulsion, Space Plasmatics, a space-tech startup founded by former Technion professor Dr. Igal Kronhaus, is developing plasma thrusters.

Traditional satellite propulsion methods rely on chemical reactions, but Space Plasmatics is using ionized gas in an electric field to navigate satellites to different orbits or back to Earth. The thrusters draw power from solar cells already mounted on satellites, making use of solar-powered electric propulsion, which is now widely used in satellite technology. The high-powered versions of these thrusters could even be used for manned missions to the Moon and Mars.

While electric propulsion was originally conceived in the 1950s for human space travel, it has now found practical applications in various industries, including GPS navigation, cell phone communication, and surveillance. Space Plasmatics has partnered with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) to develop plasma thrusters for IAI’s satellites, signaling a shift towards larger satellites that can carry larger payloads, resulting in faster returns on investment. This move also aligns with IAI’s specialization in larger satellites.

Space Plasmatics faces competition from other companies such as Enpulsion, Thrustme, Exotrail, Astra, and Rafael. However, the company distinguishes itself through its high thrust and high fuel economy, which improves the performance of Hall engines at low power. With Dr. Kronhaus’s expertise in electric propulsion and the support of IAI and the Israeli Innovation Authority, Space Plasmatics aims to make a significant impact in the space-tech industry.

The company is still in the development phase and plans to have a fully working version of its product by Q2 2025. As the space industry continues to grow, the success of Space Plasmatics will be closely watched, and its technology could play a vital role in mitigating the growing problem of space debris and improving satellite propulsion.

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