SBIR/STTR Research Award
Next-Gen Plasma-Based Propulsion System
Award amount
$62,899Program and phase
SBIR · Phase IAward year
2024Award details
- Awarding agency
- Department of Defense
- Branch
- Air Force
- Recipient company
- ATOMIQ LLC
- Proposal award date
- 2024-05-13
- Contract end date
- 2024-08-19
- UEI
- UQGSB5MEAUZ5
- Solicitation number
- X24.5
- Topic code
- AFX245-PCSO1
Research abstract
AtomiqĀis developing a next-generation plasma-based propulsion system, presenting a cutting-edge technology that redefines space exploration. The utilization of plasma as a propellant introduces unprecedented efficiency and versatility, addressing the limitations of traditional propulsion methods. The technology delves into the underlying principles, key components, and recent breakthroughs in gravity relativity, highlighting its potential for faster interplanetary travel, reduced mission durations, and enhanced spacecraft maneuverability.Ā AtomiqĀaims to propel the advancement of next-gen plasma propulsion systems through a series of technical initiatives. These include exploring and developing advanced plasma sources with enhanced efficiency and stability, researching techniques to customize magnetic fields for improved control and maneuverability, creating high-efficiency power generation systems, and devising energy storage solutions to manage power fluctuations during missions. Additionally, Atomiq intends to design and implement sophisticated thermal management systems for effective heat dissipation, develop precise control algorithms for manipulating the craft, employ machine learning to enhance predictive modeling and optimize control strategies, establish protocols and interfaces for seamless integration with other spacecraft systems, and conduct thorough ground-based testing to validate the reliability of plasma propulsion components. DuringĀtesting phases, Atomiq plans to execute in-space tests to assess system functionality in the unique conditions of space. The company aims to monitor and analyze data from these tests with the goal of refining and improving the technology. In an effort to foster collaboration, Atomiq seeks to engage in partnerships with the European Space Agency and private companies, sharing expertise and resources in the collective development of plasma propulsion technologies. Furthermore, Atomiq expresses an interest in promoting open-source initiatives to expedite innovation and facilitate the widespread dissemination of knowledge in the field. A final-stage prototype for a next-generation plasma-based propulsion craft is envisioned as a sophisticated model designed to exhibit the capabilities and viability of the proposed technology.Ā
Technology keywords
Not reported
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