In Episode 27 of the Space Industry podcast, Marco Pavan, CEO and co-founder of the British company Steamjet Space Systems, discusses water-based electrothermal propulsion technology for CubeSats and small satellites.
SteamJet Space Systems has developed a propulsion system for CubeSats and SmallSats. It addresses many of the limitations of existing technologies.
- High thrust with low energy consumption. In addition, it delivers 10 to 50 times more thrust than an electric one (Ion, FEEP, Hall Effect). At the same time, it consumes about half the power.
- Low pressure. Because of this, water is stored at a pressure below 100 psi, which significantly simplifies integration compared to other propellants.
- Reduced payload downtime. As a result, high thrust allows faster maneuvers, reducing payload downtime.
Water-based propulsion is perfect for missions in low Earth orbit (LEO).
- Orbit maintenance (station-keeping)
- Satellite constellation management
- Collision avoidance
- Orbit changes
- Controlled deorbiting
The interview explores these topics in greater detail. It also includes a technical comparison with alternative propulsion systems, an analysis of green propellants, and a discussion of the company’s commercialization strategy.
If you prefer, you can also listen on the original Space Industry website using this link.
About SteamJet Space Systems
SteamJet Space Systems is a leading UK-based provider of high-performance satellite propulsion solutions. We specialise in water-based propulsion solutions designed specifically for CubeSats and Small Satellites (SmallSats), prioritising operational safety and rapid launch integration.
By pioneering the use of green propellants and intelligent thermal engineering, SteamJet enables complex LEO (Low Earth Orbit) manoeuvres – including orbital maintenance, collision avoidance, and de-orbiting – without the risks associated with toxic hydrazine or high-pressure cold gas systems, advancing green propulsion for space missions.
Steamjet Propulsion Technology
Our modular systems are engineered for seamless integration and maximum safety compliance:
SteamJet TunaCan Thruster: A compact, high-efficiency solution for 1U-3U CubeSats.
SteamJet TunaTank Thruster: A safe, high-performance electrothermal propulsion system.
SteamJet Thruster One: Scalable propulsion for larger SmallSat constellations.
Discover how SteamJet’s sustainable space propulsion innovations are providing the safety and reliability required for the next generation of crewed and robotic missions. Contact our engineering team for technical specifications and ICDs.