Neumann Space, one of the technology leaders of in-space electric propulsion, announced that Australian Government funding will enable it to adapt the Neumann Drive for an in-orbit demonstration mission with Spire Global, a global provider of space-based data, analytics, and space services.

Neumann Space is a founding partner of the Australian Space Manufacturing Network (ASMN) project led by Gilmour Space Technologies and made possible through funding under the Australian Government's Modern Manufacturing Initiative (MMI) Collaboration stream.

Neumann Space will use Australian Government funding received under this program to work together with Spire on this mission to rapidly adapt, integrate, launch, and verify the performance of the next-generation Neumann Drive on board one of Spire's proven satellite platforms.

The Neumann Drive incorporates a unique propulsion technology that uses solid metallic propellant to enable superior mobility in space for satellites and spacecraft, including improved safety, efficiency, and the ability for it to be transported and stored fully fuelled and integrated.

Neumann Space's CEO, Herve Astier said: "Mobility is integral to the success of the new space economy, and this underpins our mission with Spire to deliver a better, more advanced propulsion solution. We are excited about the opportunity the ASMN project has provided us to work together with Spire to further the development of this sovereign space technology and to tailor our technology to their needs in delivering greater knowledge and insights about Earth."

To support the mission, Neumann Space and Spire Global signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to advance the development of better in-space propulsion for satellites. The MOU outlines the companies' intent to collaborate on an in-orbit demonstration mission with the integration of the Neumann DriveR on a Spire satellite.

Jonathon Brain, APAC Regional Business Development Director for Space Services at Spire, said: "We're excited to continue to support and contribute to Australia's space ecosystem by partnering with innovative organizations like Neumann Space to leverage our Space as a Service model to quickly and efficiently launch space missions that drive technological advancements."

Neumann Space launched its second propulsion system into space and continues to invest in a dedicated program of in-orbit missions over the next 18 months to commercialize its technology.

Click here to learn more about Neumann Drive Electric Propulsion Technology.