The world-leading propulsion technology of Adelaide-based company, Neumann Space, has taken its first leap into space.
The Neumann Drive®, which was integrated onto a Skykraft satellite, lifted off from the Vandenberg Space Force Base in California at approximately 7.05am on 13 June (ACST) onboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, the Transporter 8.
Neumann Space’s CEO, Herve Astier, said the launch is a major step for the company.
“Today, we have moved our work from the laboratory to space,” said Mr Astier.
“This represents a significant achievement for the company and a transition in our focus from research and development to rapid commercialisation worldwide.”
The launch is the first of the company’s in-orbit demonstrations planned over the coming 12 months, designed to test the performance of the drive in space.
Mr Astier explained gaining flight heritage will enable increased customer confidence.
“The Neumann Drive® is at the forefront of space propulsion, and our technology’s benefits are generating increased interest and engagement from the space, satellite and defence industries across the US, Europe and Australia,” he said.
“We are pleased to be working with Skykraft and are excited by the opportunity that our partnership has provided to demonstrate in space the technology that the team at Neumann Space has developed and honed over the past decade.”
