Orbion Space Technology has raised $9.2m to mass produce plasma thrusters for small satellites, with the aim of reducing propulsion costs for smaller satellite operators. Orbion’s products are Hall-effect thrusters, which use an electric field to create thrust and accelerate the propellant. While the costs of some satellite components have fallen, propulsion components have not, the start-up said. It also aims to reduce customer delivery times from up to eight months to no more than eight days. Material Impact led the series A funding round, with backing from investors including Invest Michigan, Michigan, and Wakestream Ventures.
Orbion Space Technology has raised $9.2m to mass produce plasma thrusters for small satellites, with the aim of reducing propulsion costs for smaller satellite operators. Orbion’s products are Hall-effect thrusters, which use an electric field to create thrust and accelerate the propellant. While the costs of some satellite components have fallen, propulsion components have not, the start-up said. It also aims to reduce customer delivery times from up to eight months to no more than eight days. Material Impact led the series A funding round, with backing from investors including Invest Michigan, Invest Detroit, and Wakestream Ventures.