SETS' SPS-25 Propulsion System proves successful in space testing

SETS' SPS-25 Propulsion System proves successful in space testing
by Simon Mansfield
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Jun 22, 2023

Space Electric Thruster Systems (SETS), a leading player in the field of electric propulsion systems utilizing Hall thrusters, has achieved a notable victory with the successful testing of its SPS-25 space propulsion system. The propulsion system was put through its paces on the EOS SAT-1 satellite, a piece of high-tech machinery developed by Dragonfly Aerospace specifically for the EOS Data Analytics space mission.

The SPS-25 propulsion system is significant because it was developed in Ukraine, a country ravaged by ongoing conflict with Russia. Despite these exceptionally challenging conditions, the innovative and tenacious team at SETS managed to complete the final assembly and rigorous testing of the propulsion system's components in the spring of 2022.

After its assembly in Ukraine, the SPS-25 was then shipped to Dragonfly Aerospace's laboratory, where it was incorporated into the EOS SAT-1 satellite. The fully assembled satellite, complete with the propulsion system, was subsequently launched into orbit aboard a Falcon 9 rocket on January 3, 2023.

Since then, the ground control team has been closely monitoring the SPS-25 propulsion system. After performing meticulous checks and conducting in-depth testing, the team decided to activate the propulsion system to correct the satellite's orbit. Information received from the satellite in early May 2023 confirms that the SPS-25 is functioning as intended, proving the success of the SETS propulsion system in a real-world application.

SETS has always stood out as a company that provides comprehensive solutions to satellite manufacturers. These solutions are attractive because they eliminate the need for manufacturers to source and assemble individual systems from multiple vendors. They also simplify the management of complex logistics chains and remove the requirement for extensive component testing.

Viktor Serbin, the CEO of SETS, expressed his satisfaction with the results, stating that the company's propulsion systems have been "tested and proven to work in real-world space conditions." Serbin noted that as the company advances, it will continue to offer ready-made solutions while also developing bespoke propulsion systems tailored to meet the specific requirements of their clients. Furthermore, SETS is actively working towards establishing European Union settlements.

The SPS-25 propulsion system is designed to have an estimated total operational pulse of 800 hours on the EOS SAT-1 satellite. This capacity is more than adequate to maintain the satellite's orbit for a projected lifespan of 5 years. It will also provide the necessary thrust to remove the satellite from orbit at the end of its service life, demonstrating the comprehensive planning and design strategy employed by SETS in the creation of their propulsion systems.