Low-cost High-power Solar Electric Propulsion for Enhanced In-Space Maneuverability

With space now a contested domain, the Space Force requires new space-based capabilities designed to outperform and outmaneuver near peer adversaries to ensure successful space operations can continue to be accomplished in support of warfighting efforts.  In the pursuit of maintaining the United States’ propulsive superiority in space, Phase Four seeks to scale its innovative and cost-effective electric propulsion technology, the radiofrequency thruster (“RF thruster”), to support highly resilient and maneuverable national security space missions requiring solar electric propulsion (SEP). Over the course of the Phase I effort, Phase Four proposes to engage closely with Space Force program offices whose missions require high-power SEP, determine requirements for a high-power RF thruster development, and conduct a feasibility study and development plan to deliver this capability to a Space Force customer.