Leading South Australian space companies Neumann Space and Inovor Technologies are joining forces to enhance the mobility of satellites in space.
In a move set to boost the state’s sovereign satellite capabilities, the companies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to work collaboratively on developing and integrating Neumann’s innovative electric propulsion system – the Neumann Drive – into Inovor’s larger satellite bus platforms.
The agreement follows the successful demonstration of the Neumann Drive – a novel electric propulsion system that uses solid metal propellants – aboard the SpIRIT nanosatellite, where it was hosted on an Inovor 6U Bus platform.
Neumann Space CEO Herve Astier said the company will become a key supplier for Inovor and help develop propulsion capabilities on mobile platforms, such as the Apogee and Australis bus, which also include power, pointing, mission control and telemetry systems.
“Working closely with our customers is integral to delivering better propulsion systems for local and global markets,” Mr Astier said.
“Inovor has been a trusted partner of ours for a number of years now. Their support has been integral to achieving flight heritage, a fantastic milestone for both companies.”
Inovor Technologies is a world-leading supplier of next generation small satellite technology and sub-systems. The company provides a range of turnkey mission solution services, from designing manufacturing, integrating and testing satellites, through to operations and supporting launch.
Inovor Technologies’ CEO Dr Matt Tetlow said the company is excited to leverage Neumann Space’s electric propulsion technology.
“The successful demonstration of the Neumann Drive aboard SpIRIT marked a significant step forward, and we are excited to leverage this technology across our Apogee and Australis bus platforms,” Dr Tetlow said.
“By combining Neumann’s innovative electric propulsion system with our advanced small satellite capabilities, we’re paving the way for even greater mission versatility and performance for our customers”.
