Ensuring Performance and Reliability: The Testing Process Behind SteamJet Thrusters

SteamJet space propulsion system

SteamJet water propulsion for CubeSats undergoes a rigorous testing process to ensure maximum reliability and performance. In addition, our water-based satellite thrusters are designed to provide safe and sustainable propulsion for CubeSat missions, from laboratory integration to real in-orbit operation.

Our water propulsion for CubeSats has been thoroughly tested across various missions, including partnerships with Above the Clouds and PHi Demo missions, to confirm their ability to tackle space challenges. Moreover, these tests are crucial in supporting small satellite developers seeking reliable, sustainable propulsion solutions.

Starting with the initial PHi Demo mission in collaboration with the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), launched aboard the Soyuz rocket, to the mission with the SatRevolution team aboard the Virgin Orbit launch vehicle, every mission has offered essential insights. This experience helped us refine and validate the effectiveness of our propulsion technology.

SteamJet thrusters undergo multiple testing phases to guarantee that they are entirely ready for the space mission.

Operational Condition Simulation for Water Propulsion for CubeSats

Satellite thruster systemSatellite thruster systems must be tested to ensure their reliability. Thus, it is crucial to simulate operational conditions during the development process. There are multiple external factors that affect the thruster at the launch, which are outlined in the launch vehicle manual. Potential issues involve vibrations, acceleration and the abrupt forces on both first and second stages. A vibrodynamic test bench simulates these vibrations, reproducing the unique characteristics of the launch vehicle.

First, a qualification copy is tested on a vibrodynamic bench to apply stress 20-40% higher than what the thruster is expected to experience on the launch vehicle itself. Next, the final product intended for the customer, undergoes an additional 12-20% overload.

Meanwhile, in orbit, space propulsion systems face a set of challenges, namely temperature fluctuations and low pressure. The thrusters transition from extreme heat to cold 16 times a day, but the water inside must remain sealed and functional. A thermal vacuum chamber is used to simulate the space environment, cycling through these extreme conditions.

After completing vibration and thermal vacuum tests, we can confirm that thrusters will perform reliably. As a result, key parameters must not be compromised, namely thrust, specific impulse, and seal integrity. Each thruster is certified to leave the lab after ensuring that it can withstand all these factors.

All the reports and functional tests are reviewed by the customer to verify that the propulsion technology performed predictably and within the technically justified tolerances under operational conditions.

Integration into Satellite

Once a satellite thruster has passed all qualification phases, it’s ready to be integrated into the small satellite platform. After it is integrated into the satellite, the customer repeats all the same steps. Teams of both missions, the PHi Demo mission and “Above the Cloud”, received fully functional and tested thrusters. They integrated thrusters into their equipment and successfully performed all the tests.

Our team participated in the acceptance process, we reviewed all the reports and test forms with the mission system engineers. We also took part and provided training in the thruster fueling, either at the launch site or in the laboratory.

SteamJet space propulsion systems successfully passed every testing stage in both missions, the PHi Demo mission and the “Above the Cloud” mission. Our water-based propulsion technology demonstrated exceptional reliability, and small satellite developers received fully functional and high-quality thrusters that meet all the performance standards.

We are dedicated to quality and accuracy, these missions showcase SteamJet’s capacity to provide dependable, advanced satellite thrusters that are fully operational in space.

More technical information regarding the thrusters is available on our website. This includes specifications, performance data, and recent test results. Steam TunaCan Thruster and Steam Thruster One. Discover how SteamJet innovations are shaping the future of sustainable satellite propulsion.

Sustainability: Innovation and Space Debris Management

CubeSat propulsion system reducing space debris

Today, the space sector is advancing rapidly. The number of launches and satellites in orbit is increasing. This creates fresh opportunities for commerce, research, and environmental monitoring. However, this growth also brings sustainability challenges — both on Earth and in space. One of the issues is a growing amount of orbital debris being generated. Therefore, it highlights the importance of CubeSat propulsion in reducing space debris and improving orbital sustainability.

The Space Debris Challenge

Space exploration is becoming more attainable for entrepreneurs and innovators. Furthermore, with the expansion of satellite constellations in both quantity and scale, numerous new items are being introduced into low Earth orbit—not only satellites but also space debris. This debris typically includes non-functional satellites and abandoned rocket stages. As a result, orbital overcrowding and long-term viability are growing concerns.

The space debris poses a threat of collision events and may ultimately hinder or render it unfeasible for satellites to function properly in the low Earth orbits utilized for scientific purposes and communications.

Commitment to Sustainable CubeSat Propulsion

At SteamJet, we believe the future depends on making responsible choices and exploring the stars without leaving unnecessary marks. To support this goal, our commitment is to adopt sustainable and eco-friendly propellants to reduce the effect on space environments.

SteamJet propulsion systems function solely in the space environment and pose no threat to the Earth’s atmosphere. They don’t contain hazardous or flammable materials that require special care when being installed on a satellite. Additionally, our engines activate solely in space, and unlike various other satellite types, they can be deployed from a spacecraft or space station. Their launch and functioning pose no risk to the crew.

CubeSat propulsion systems powered with water transform the modern approach to satellite mobility and help mitigate space debris in orbit. Moreover, they offer safe, cost-efficient, and environmentally responsible solutions. In particular, these systems enable precise orbit adjustments, maintain satellite positioning, support constellation coordination, and ensure end-of-life de-orbiting.

More technical information regarding the thrusters is available on our website. This includes specifications, performance data, and recent test results. Steam TunaCan Thruster and Steam Thruster One. Discover how SteamJet innovations are shaping the future of sustainable satellite propulsion.

CubeSat Propulsion System Powered with Water

CubeSat Propulsion system powered with water
CubeSat propulsion systems are becoming an essential capability for modern small satellite missions. As CubeSats evolve from simple technology demonstrations to operational spacecraft, propulsion is required to maintain and adjust orbits, perform collision avoidance manoeuvres, manage satellite constellations, and enable controlled de-orbiting at the end of the mission. The rapid growth of low Earth orbit activity has increased congestion and raised the importance of safe and sustainable propulsion solutions. Reliable propulsion is now a key enabler for mission longevity, regulatory compliance, and responsible use of space.

Water-Based CubeSat Propulsion for Sustainable Space Missions

Water-based propulsion is a breakthrough technology designed to improve both mission capability and sustainability. These systems use water as the primary propellant, converting it into thrust through thermal or resistive processes. By avoiding toxic chemicals, water-powered propulsion offers a safer and more environmentally responsible alternative to conventional propulsion technologies. Using water as a propellant makes propulsion systems easier to integrate, more affordable to operate, and safer to handle during manufacturing, testing, and launch preparation.

Low-Pressure Water as a Safe Propellant for CubeSat Propulsion

The choice of propellant has a major impact on the safety and cost of CubeSat propulsion systems. Traditional chemical propellants can introduce risks related to toxicity, flammability, and chemical instability. These risks require strict safety procedures and often increase integration complexity and mission costs. Water is a non-toxic, chemically stable, and widely available propellant. When used in low-pressure propulsion systems, it significantly reduces safety concerns while still providing reliable thrust for orbit control and manoeuvring. This makes water particularly well suited for CubeSat propulsion. CubeSats are frequently launched as secondary payloads alongside larger spacecraft. In these shared launch environments, propulsion systems using hazardous propellants can pose risks to other payloads and to the launch vehicle. Water-based CubeSat propulsion minimises these risks while maintaining compatibility with rideshare missions.

Common Propulsion Use Cases

Modern propulsion systems enable a wide range of mission-critical operations that were previously difficult or impossible for small spacecraft:
  • Collision Avoidance Propulsion allows spacecraft to quickly change orbit in case of possible collision with another space object
  • Orbit Insertion and Correction Propulsion allows spacecraft to reach and fine-tune their target orbit after deployment, improving mission accuracy and flexibility.
  • Orbit Maintenance Atmospheric drag in low Earth orbit gradually reduces altitude. Propulsion compensates for this effect, helping maintain orbital parameters and extend mission lifetime.
  • Constellation Management For missions involving multiple satellites, propulsion enables precise spacing, phasing, and formation control, allowing coordinated constellation operations.
  • End-of-Life De-Orbiting Responsible space operations require controlled disposal. Propulsion systems provide the capability to safely de-orbit spacecraft, reducing long-term space debris.


Water-Powered Propulsion for a Sustainable Future

Water-powered CubeSat propulsion systems are transforming how small satellites operate in orbit. They combine safety, cost efficiency, and environmental responsibility while delivering the performance required for orbit control, constellation management, and compliant end-of-life disposal. Detailed technical information, including specifications, performance data, and test results, is available for our propulsion solutions: Steam TunaCan Thruster and Steam Thruster One. Discover how SteamJet technology is shaping the future of sustainable CubeSat propulsion.

SteamJet selected by MBRSC for its first PHI-Demo mission

CubeSat Propulsion system powered with water

In January, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) announced the development of the PHI-Demo mission under the Payload Hosting Initiative. Furthermore, the Initiative aims at providing an effective satellite platform that can host payloads for multiple purposes. The project includes a 12U modular satellite platform that is going to be designed in partnership with OQ Technology and SteamJet Space Systems. Specifically, SteamJet Space Systems is company specialising in sustainable CubeSat propulsion. As a result, the UAE intends to strengthen its position in space innovations.

Sustainable CubeSat propulsion

Photo Source: MBRSC, https://mediaoffice.ae/en

SteamJet’s Role in PHI-Demo

Together with an innovative IoT communication payload, PHI-Demo’s main goal will be to test SteamJet’s environmentally friendly propulsion subsystem. In particular, the Steam Thruster One is going to showcase sustainable CubeSat propulsion in real mission conditions. The Steam Thruster One is a flexible water-powered resistojet. It provides high thrust — tens of times more than electric propulsion — while consuming very little power. Consequently, this makes it a significant innovation in sustainable CubeSat propulsion technology. Moreover, another major benefit of the Steam Thruster One is the possibility to customize its water tanks size and shape to meet the mission requirements. It also improves the subsystem final integration into the spacecra, further enhancing integration into the spacecraft and advancing CubeSat propulsion efficiency.

The mission launch date is scheduled for Q4 2022. According to the Director-General of the MBRSC, His Excellency Salem Humaid AlMarri, said that this collaboration gave more opportunities for countries and entities to deploy and operate their own satellites in space. In addition, it would contribute to the advancement of satellite-related technologies.

According to the Head of Payload Hosting Initiative of the MBRSC, Zakaria Al Shamsi, the space sector’s future relies on possibilities for cooperation. And the Payload Hosting Initiative means a strategic step for the space sector.

Mission Impact and Strategic Importance

Marco Pavan, CEO of SteamJet Space Systems expressed his appreciation to have been selected for the first PHI mission. Moreover, he sees the partnership with MBRSC as an essential step towards a greener and safer approach to propulsion in the small satellite industry.

The PHI-Demo mission demonstrates how sustainable CubeSat propulsion is shaping the future of eco-friendly, efficient, and safe satellite missions.

Last year Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) and the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) announced the Payload Hosting Initiative (“PHI”) and the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding for satellite payload hosting. The program starts in 2022 and plans to hold two satellite missions annually.

About SteamJet Space Systems

SteamJet Space Systems is a UK-based space propulsion company offering high-performance, water-based thrusters for CubeSats and Small Satellites. By utilising green propellants and intelligent engineering, SteamJet enables complex in-space missions without resorting to toxic or high-pressure systems.

You can access detailed technical specifications, test data, and CAD models for our new space engines on our website. Steam TunaCan Thruster and Steam Thruster One. Discover how SteamJet innovations are shaping the future of sustainable satellite propulsion

SteamJet’ TunaCan Thrusters a part of the “Above the Clouds” mission

CubeSat in-Orbit Propulsion on the “Above the Clouds” Mission

Virgin Orbit announced the changes in the “Above the Clouds” mission where SteamJet Space Systems will participate with its CubeSat water propulsion thruster.

According to Virgin Orbit, the Spire CubeSat will join the smallsats of the Space Test Program and SatRevolution on the next LauncherOne mission. Notably, this will be the rocket’s fourth flight since the first launch in May 2020. Meanwhile, the “Above the Clouds” mission with a Virgin Orbit LauncherOne rocket is scheduled for launch on January 12, 2022 (UTC).

The mission “Above the Clouds” was first announced in November. At that time, the participants were the Defense Department’s Space Test Program (STP) and SatRevolution. SatRevolution is a Polish manufacturer of nanosatellite technologies. The satellite aimed to collect information about “micro” space debris in low Earth orbit. It will be done with the help of a short-range radar provided by Spire. Furthermore, SatRevolution planned to test two projects: STORK-3 as an imaging satellite and SteamSat-2, based on SteamJet’ TunaCan Thruster. SteamJet TunaCan Thruster is a compact resistojet with a unique water-powered propulsion technology, produced by SteamJet Space Systems. It demonstrates CubeSat in-orbit propulsion using a compact, water-powered resistojet designed for small satellite missions. Moreover, the TunaCan Thruster has been specifically designed for CubeSat platforms, keeping in mind all the limitations in terms of volume, power, and safety while enabling reliable in-orbit propulsion for CubeSats.

TunaCan Thruster for External CubeSat Installation

One of the key benefits of the SteamJet TunaCan Thruster is its external installation in the TunaCan volume, which sits outside the CubeSat structure. Therefore, it has the ability to deliver CubeSat in-orbit propulsion while occupying almost no internal satellite volume. In fact, it is the only propulsion unit in the market that needs almost no volume inside the satellite. Moreover, the TunaCan Thruster is environmentally friendly, as water is the main propellant, provides a high thrust, and has a low power consumption. For more details, technical information about the TunaCan Thruster is available on our website.

About SteamJet Space Systems

SteamJet Space Systems, based in the UK, develops high-performance, water-based thrusters for CubeSats and small satellites. By utilising green propellants and intelligent engineering, SteamJet enables complex in-space missions without resorting to toxic or high-pressure systems.

More technical information regarding the thrusters is available on our website. This includes specifications, performance data, and recent test results. Steam TunaCan Thruster and Steam Thruster One. Discover how SteamJet innovations are shaping the future of sustainable satellite propulsion.