SteamJet Water Thruster Selected for Artemis II CubeSat Critical Orbit Correction

SteamJet Water Thruster Powers Critical Artemis II CubeSat Maneuver

UK-based startup SteamJet Space Systems has been selected to provide the propulsion unit for K-RadCube, a 12U-class CubeSat mission flying as part of Artemis II, NASA’s first crewed return to the Moon in more than 50 years. The satellite will characterise high-energy particle populations across altitudes ranging from approximately 200 km to 70,000 km. The mission will take SteamJet’s water-based propulsion system to an apogee of approximately 70,000 km.

The CubeSat, developed by South Korea’s NaraSpace, will operate in a highly elliptical Earth orbit. Once released, SteamJet’s water-based propulsion system will play a critical role in preventing atmospheric re-entry and enabling the spacecraft to carry out its scientific mission.

SteamJet Propulsion Supporting the Artemis II Mission

“Our participation in a mission that is part of NASA’s Artemis II programme is a major milestone for our team,” said Marco Pavan, CEO of SteamJet Space Systems.

“This selection validates our technology as both sustainable and capable of operating in complex orbital environments. It demonstrates that CubeSats and small satellites no longer need to compromise on performance to adopt green propulsion solutions.”

The CubeSat, named K‑RadCube, will initially be placed into a highly elliptical orbit with an apogee of approximately 70,000 km and a perigee that is critically low. Without corrective manoeuvres, the spacecraft would re-enter Earth’s atmosphere during its very first orbit. A 12-hour burn by SteamJet’s water-powered thruster is intended to raise the perigee to 200 km, extending the mission and preventing atmospheric re-entry after the first orbit.

High-Performance Orbital Manoeuvre Using Water-Based Propulsion

Traditionally, only chemical propulsion systems, with their high thrust and specific impulse, could perform such rapid and demanding orbital corrections. SteamJet’s propulsion system, however, achieves comparable performance using water as propellant.

Shortly after deployment, the thruster will execute a continuous 12-hour burn to raise the perigee to approximately 200 km. This manoeuvre will prevent atmospheric re-entry and allow the spacecraft to operate safely within Earth’s radiation belts.

If successful, this operation will represent one of the longest continuous in-orbit burns ever performed by a water-based propulsion system, setting a new benchmark for sustainable in-space propulsion.

SteamJet Water Thruster Powers Critical Artemis II CubeSat Maneuver

Key Objectives of the SteamJet Thruster on Artemis II

 

  1. Perigee correction to approximately 200 km
  2. Orbit adjustment and stabilisation
  3. Extension of the CubeSat operational lifetime

This mission therefore demonstrates how sustainable propulsion technologies can now support advanced orbital operations for CubeSats and small satellites. SteamJet’s system delivers high performance without the use of toxic or high-pressure propellants, offering a safer and greener alternative to traditional chemical propulsion.

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.

From Classroom to Orbit: Train Future Engineers with SteamJet CubeSat Propulsion Systems

CubeSat propulsion systems for education

Today, the space industry is developing rapidly, creating new challenges for academic programs. According to BryceTech’s Smallsats by the Numbers 2025 report, a record 4,466 smallsats were launched in 2025, accounting for 98% of all spacecraft launched that year. Moreover, low Earth orbit (LEO) broadband megaconstellations accounted for 79% of smallsat deployments, highlighting their growing role in the space sector. 

Against this backdrop, it is no longer sufficient to teach theory to students preparing for careers in aerospace, satellite operations, and mission control. They need hands-on, practical experience with real CubeSat propulsion systems. Research titled Skills Gap Analysis in the Space Sector: Bridging the Gap Between Curricula and Job Requirements identifies several mismatches between academic training and industry needs. The study highlights that teamwork and project management are often taught only indirectly, while specific hard skills related to new space technologies and software are frequently missing from curricula. It also identifies a demand for greater professional experience and more opportunities for students to gain workplace exposure during their studies. These findings underscore the importance of practical training in aerospace education.

The Aerospace Education Gap in CubeSat Propulsion

Many universities worldwide provide excellent fundamental knowledge in orbital mechanics, control systems, satellite design, and mission planning. Students run simulations, model satellite behaviours, and plan manoeuvres. But many recent graduates find themselves not fully prepared for real-world in-orbit operations.

This gap between theory and practice is particularly noticeable in areas like CubeSat propulsion technology, trajectory optimisation, and satellite navigation. A lack of operational experience may lead to costly mistakes. Thus, it is clear that students need earlier access to real spacecraft systems.

Why Hands-On CubeSat Propulsion Training Matters

There is a big difference between simulation and operating a thruster in orbit. When students install, test, and eventually operate thrusters in flight, they gain invaluable technical and problem-solving skills and build professional confidence. These kinds of skills and approaches are impossible to teach only through software tools.

Real-life experience with propulsion systems allows students to practice mission-critical roles:

  • Planning and executing orbital manoeuvres
  • Monitoring system performance
  • Diagnosing and responding to challenges in real-time

Steam-Based CubeSat Propulsion for Universities

Steam-based propulsion systems can offer practical advantages for educational programs, particularly when safety, accessibility, and ease of integration are key considerations. SteamJet technology uses water as a propellant and is designed for small satellite missions, making it a potential option for hands-on CubeSat propulsion training.

Several features may support its use in university laboratories:

  • Water-based propellant – water avoids the handling of hazardous propellants, although appropriate laboratory safety procedures are still required.
  • Low-pressure operation – can help reduce certain integration risks, provided that operating conditions and pressure-system requirements are assessed for the specific configuration.
  • CubeSat compatibility – enables students to explore propulsion technologies designed for small satellite missions.
  • Simplified electronics – may facilitate integration and operation in educational settings with limited technical resources.

Real Missions for Future Engineers

By working with spacecraft propulsion systems, students receive experience with a full mission lifecycle, and they learn to make decisions that have real consequences. This kind of training builds precisely the expertise that the current aerospace industry demands.

Whether your university is launching its first CubeSat or expanding a satellite program, SteamJet offers a tangible path to professional-level experience. Our systems give student teams the chance to build, test, and fly real space propulsion — all while staying safe and budget-friendly.

Interested in integrating space propulsion training into your university’s program? We’re here to help. Contact SteamJet to learn how our technology can support your student satellite missions and help bridge the gap between theoretical education and practical, real-world spacecraft operations.

We offer a special program and pricing for universities and academic institutions — making it easier to bring real propulsion systems to your students. Learn more about our Academia program for universities and academic institutions.

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.

Unlock Real Spaceflight Experience with SteamJet Water Propulsion for Academic CubeSat Missions

Compact satellite thruster used in academic training projects

University-led CubeSat missions have become an established pathway for practical space engineering education. To give an example, NASA’s CubeSat Launch Initiative has selected 228 missions, including 183 that have launched. Today, many universities worldwide prepare the next generation of space engineers with a strong theoretical background. However, research titled Aerospace Engineering Skills Gap Analysis: What Employers Want vs What Degree Programs Teach identifies a mismatch between academic curricula and industry needs. The study highlights limited opportunities to develop practical skills and gain professional experience during university studies, pointing to the need for more hands-on learning opportunities in space engineering.

Research on skills gaps in the space sector has identified limited opportunities for students to gain practical experience and develop industry-relevant skills during their studies. Consequently, graduates may enter the workforce without sufficient exposure to real spacecraft propulsion hardware, satellite subsystem integration, or hands-on testing. Providing access to practical training equipment can help universities address this challenge.

The Challenge of Acquiring Practical Spaceflight Experience

When preparing for careers in astrodynamics and satellite operations, students use computer modelling and simulations to study orbital dynamics, plan manoeuvres, and analyse spacecraft behaviour. However, simulations cannot fully reproduce the practical aspects of working with physical propulsion hardware. Testing a manoeuvre with real equipment also requires students to account for actual system parameters, measurement uncertainties, and actuator limitations. Combining simulation-based exercises with hands-on experiments can therefore help students connect theoretical knowledge with the practical demands of spacecraft operations.

As a result, graduates may enter the industry with limited hands-on experience with actual spacecraft propulsion systems. When working on complex space missions, they must apply their theoretical knowledge to real hardware, account for practical engineering constraints, and interpret data from physical systems. Gaining this experience during university studies can help students prepare for the technical challenges they may encounter in their professional careers.

Why Water-Based Thrusters Are Ideal for Academic CubeSat Missions

For this reason, SteamJet water propulsion thrusters are a natural fit for student satellite missions led by universities and research teams. They’re easy to work with, inherently safe, and designed to lower the barriers to real in-orbit learning — without the complications that come with traditional space propulsion systems.

Key Advantages of Water Propulsion for Universities:

  • Water-based propellant – SteamJet TunaCan uses water as a non-hazardous propellant and operates with a low-pressure liquid system. Its design follows NASA GSFC-STD-7000A and ESA ECSS-E-ST-10-03C standards, supporting its integration into small satellite missions.
  • Low-pressure operation makes it safe for classroom and lab environments.
  • The satellite thruster mounts externally, preserving internal CubeSat volume for payloads.
  • Simple electronics ensure quick integration with educational and research systems.

By incorporating SteamJet systems, universities enable students to engage directly with real spacecraft propulsion hardware — giving them an experience that goes far beyond simulation.

SteamJet water propulsion thruster mounted on a CubeSat

Applications in Academic Programs

1. Training the Next Generation of Satellite Control Operators

In practice, future mission planners and satellite control operators can work directly with orbital dynamics and propulsion systems, building the critical skills required for satellite trajectory planning and spacecraft navigation.

2. Hands-On Experience with Spacecraft Propulsion

As a result, SteamJet systems allow students to practice orbital manoeuvres and trajectory planning, helping them gain real experience in spacecraft propulsion control and mission execution.

3. Satellite Constellation Deployment

Additionally, student teams get the chance to manage satellite constellations, learning to coordinate cluster behaviour and positioning.

4. Orbit Optimisation

In many cases, educational missions are often launched as secondary payloads; hence, they begin in suboptimal positions. CubeSat propulsion systems provide a chance for students to perform orbit adjustments.

5. Proximity Operations

Finally, using CubeSat thruster units, students can simulate close-range manoeuvres, alignment, and docking preparation.

Next Generation of Space Engineers

The next wave of space innovation depends on empowering students with more than theory. By giving them access to new space engines and operational space propulsion systems, academic institutions play a direct role in shaping mission-ready professionals.

SteamJet’s spacecraft propulsion technologies — including the TunaCan Thruster and Thruster One — offer a safe, effective foundation for experiential learning. These systems are specifically developed to support the growing needs of small satellite programs and to drive innovation in satellite propulsion across the academic landscape.

Ready to Bring In-Orbit Propulsion to Your Classroom?

Interested in integrating space propulsion training into your university’s program? We’re here to help. Contact SteamJet to learn how our technology can support your student satellite missions and help bridge the gap between theoretical education and practical, real-world spaceflight. Learn more about our Academia program for universities and academic institutions.

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.

TunaCan Thruster: A Compact and Safe CubeSat Propulsion Solution for Academic Missions

TunaCan water-based CubeSat propulsion system for academic missions

How to Simplify CubeSat Propulsion for Academic Space Missions

CubeSat propulsion solution for academic missions is a growing priority for universities developing student-led space programs. This priority is reinforced by a National Academies report that documents growing university engagement in CubeSat science and identifies propulsion as one of four key technology areas requiring further investment to enhance the scientific capabilities of CubeSat missions. While integrating propulsion into a CubeSat may seem straightforward in theory, the reality is often far more complex — particularly for student teams and university-based research groups.  A NASA technical memorandum examining two university CubeSat missions identifies mass and volume constraints, power requirements, limited availability of suitably sized and certified hardware, feed-system development, launch-safety requirements, and constraints on personnel, budgets, and schedules as interconnected propulsion-integration challenges.

At SteamJet Space, we believe that satellite propulsion should enable mission success — not stand in its way.

TunaCan is a compact, water-based satellite thruster tailored specifically for academic CubeSat missions and early-stage research programs. The system delivers safe operation, simple integration, and full compatibility with existing CubeSat propulsion workflows.

Why CubeSat Propulsion Often May Be Challenging

Implementing CubeSat propulsion systems presents particular difficulties for academic teams. In particular, the following factors often create challenges:

  • Limited space and volume: many thrusters are too large for a CubeSat, reducing available space for payloads and other mission-critical systems.
  • Safety and handling requirements: high-pressure tanks and hazardous propellants require additional safety and regulatory measures.
  • Complex system integration: smaller and less-experienced teams face different issues with numerous requirements, timelines, and more.

These factors are especially pronounced for student-led projects and early-career researchers because the resources are limited and timelines are quite tight. For example, the University of Southern Indiana’s undergraduate-led UNITE CubeSat received a $200,000 NASA grant and was initially required to produce flight-ready hardware within 18 months of its Project Initiation Conference. The spacecraft was ultimately delivered approximately 25 months after that.

TunaCan Thruster: A New CubeSat Propulsion Solution

CubeSat propulsion solution for academic missions shown alongside spacecraft hardware during engineering integration and testing

TunaCan is a satellite thruster with a simple integration that doesn’t compromise its functionality. Our compact, water-based CubeSat propulsion system allows for eliminating many traditional barriers associated with satellite thrusters.

Main advantages:

  • First, the TunaCan thruster mounts outside of the satellite; therefore, it preserves valuable internal space for payloads. Some carriers integrate it inside a specific type of small satellite deployer.
  • In addition, the TunaCan satellite thruster utilises water as its propellant, making it safe for academic environments and lab settings because there are no risks associated with high-pressure tanks and hazardous materials.
  • Moreover, straightforward integration requires minimal preparation time.
  • Finally, the system supports diverse mission applications with advanced performance and operational flexibility.

The TunaCan satellite thruster provides a dependable CubeSat propulsion solution ready for a wide range of student satellite missions and academic CubeSat missions.

CubeSat Propulsion Solution Available for University Missions

TunaCan satellite thruster is a flight-proven solution designed to offer high functionality, safety, and simple integration – all at a cost accessible to universities and research institutions. You can find all the technical documentation and CAD models on our website. If your mission requires reliable, low-complexity propulsion, we’d be happy to help. TunaCan satellite thruster is a perfect CubeSat propulsion solution for university teams – reach out to learn how the TunaCan CubeSat thruster can power your next academic space mission.

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.

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.

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.