Busek Space and Propulsion Systems, a US-based space company, is powering the future of spaceflight with its range of propulsion systems in space. Their flight heritage started in 2006 with a 200 W Hall Thruster on TacSat-2, which was the first US Hall Thruster in space. They have also pioneered in developing and deploying first electrospray thruster in space.

Hall Thruster

Busek develops leading edge electric propulsion thrusters to enable entirely new classes of spacecraft missions. Hall effect thrusters balance extraordinarily high specific impulse with excellent thrust-to-power for a highly efficient electric propulsion system. They have deep expertise in plasma physics and magnetic field design. Their Hall-effect thrusters offer class-leading performance, and are backed by decades of flight and test experience. 

Electrospray Thrusters

Electrospray thrusters are characterized by precise thrust control (on the order of nano-Newtons) and extremely efficient operation (over 80%). Proven on the LISA Pathfinder mission, electrospray thrusters are more versatile and precise than any reaction wheel system, and can achieve unprecedented stability for large observatory missions.

RF Ion Thrusters

Busek’s RF ion thrusters are an unprecedented iodine-fueled ion propulsion system scheduled for launch on two deep-space CubeSat missions. Iodine propellant is stored as a dense solid and eliminates the need for high-pressure and large volume tanks, while delivering high total impulse and specific impulse.

Green Propellant Thruster

Using a patented monolithic catalyst, Busek’s green monopropellant thruster is fueled with ASCENT. This new formulation has 10% higher specific impulse and 45% greater density than hydrazine, the most commonly used but highly toxic monopropellant. ASCENT significantly reduce handling costs and safety concerns vs. hydrazine, while delivering superior performance. 

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