The payload includes a high-temperature superconducting magnet, its “flux pump” power supply, and custom control electronics. By combining a high-temperature plasma thruster and a superconducting magnet, this experimental set of novel components can dramatically improve propulsion efficiency in space.
Hēki is a vital validation for novel technologies at the heart of the Kōkako thruster, an electric propulsion system developed at Robinson that exhausts plasma—accelerated by a superconducting magnet—to generate thrust. Once installed, the Hēki payload will be the first in-space test of this set of components, thereby helping validate the feasibility of using superconducting magnets in space. Unlike chemical rockets, electric propulsion systems can operate continuously for months or even years, enabling deep space missions and heavy cargo transport with minimal fuel use.
Professor Nick Long, director, Robinson Research Institute, says, “At Robinson, our focus has always been on how applications of high-temperature superconductivity (HTS) can be leveraged to address real-world issues. What started as an idea—using high-temperature superconductors to advance electric propulsion—led to a successful bid under the Endeavour Fund, administered by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment. With a successful Hēki mission we are the only group in the world to demonstrate in space, a superconductor magnet which can enable this class of thrusters.”
“Electric propulsion can offer significant technical, financial, and sustainability advantages to the space industry. The successful launch of the Hēki payload marks a significant moment for Aotearoa New Zealand. It is a milestone for a New Zealand research team to have the capability to put a technology demonstrator on the ISS. This could be the first of many projects where we have the opportunity to leverage our expertise in this field,” he said.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research, Professor Margaret Hyland, says, “This is a truly remarkable achievement, where technology developed and stress-tested in Lower Hutt has been launched into space.
“Robinson Research Institute, a valued member of the Te Herenga Waka community, is at the forefront of cutting-edge research, be it propulsion in space or developing more accessible Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanners. With their established capabilities in emerging areas like space and advanced aviation, I’m certain that they will lead many more projects that create impact on national and international scales.”
This project is a collaboration between Paihau—Robinson Research Institute and participants from Voyager technologies (providing mission management services), IDS Consulting, Asteria Engineering Consultancy, University of Canterbury, University of Auckland, and the Czech Technical University in Prague.
Etched onto the Hēki payload’s cover is a Māori design by artist Reweti Arapere. The design honours the name of the thruster, Kōkako, which was gifted by Professor Rawinia Higgins, Deputy Vice-chancellor (Māori and Kaitiakitanga) at Te Herenga Waka. The design is inspired by the Kōkako bird’s graceful flight and its distinctive blue wattles, which mirror the electric blue glow of the thruster. The cover also includes the names of those who contributed to the project.
Launched aboard Northrop Grumman’s 23rd commercial resupply services mission (NG-23) at 10.11 am NZT on Monday 15 September (Sunday 14 September at 6:11 p.m. ET, USA), the Hēki payload will stay on the ISS for three months and will be monitored remotely by the Robinson team.
For more information, email Varsha Narasimhan (varsha.narasimhan@vuw.ac.nz), Principal Adviser, Communications and Engagement.