Applications

Explore our applications to learn more about our projects and their potential to revolutionise space exploration.

Propulsion

Our team is developing applied-field magnetoplasmadynamic thrusters using HTS technology for efficient space exploration and testing on the International Space Station (ISS) in 2025.

Propulsion systems are the backbone of space exploration, enabling spacecraft to travel vast distances and manoeuvre in the harsh space environment.

Our team is at the forefront of developing next-generation propulsion technologies, including electric and chemical propulsion systems.

We are particularly focused on quantifying and improving these systems' efficiency and thrust capabilities, which are crucial for reducing travel time and expanding mission possibilities. Our work includes experimenting with new propellant formulations and propulsion methods that could one day make satellite operations more sustainable and interplanetary travel more feasible.

Radiation shielding

We are developing advanced materials and technologies to protect astronauts and equipment from space radiation for safe future missions. The Hēki technology demonstration includes two radiation sensors to quantify the effect of strong magnetic fields on the particle flux on the ISS.

Our research into radiation shielding aims to develop materials and technologies that can effectively protect against this serious threat. We are exploring advanced materials that can be integrated into spacecraft structures to provide enhanced protection with minimal weight penalty.

Additionally, we are investigating active shielding techniques, such as electromagnetic fields, to create dynamic barriers against radiation. Our goal is to ensure the safety of future space missions, whether they involve human crews or delicate instruments.

Heat shielding for re-entry

We develop lightweight, cost-effective materials and designs to protect spacecraft during re-entry for superior thermal protection and enhanced mission safety.

Because re-entry into Earth's atmosphere is one of the most challenging phases of a space mission, it requires robust heat shielding to protect the spacecraft from extreme temperatures.

Our team is developing advanced heat shield materials and designs that can withstand re-entry's intense heat and mechanical stresses. We are focusing on materials that not only provide superior thermal protection but are also lightweight and low-cost.

Modelling capabilities

We use state-of-the-art computational tools to simulate space mission scenarios, optimise design parameters, and ensure the reliability of our innovations.

Accurate thermal, magnetic, and mechanical modelling is essential for the successful design and operation of the advanced space systems we design and test.

Our team has developed advanced modelling capabilities that simulate a wide range of space mission scenarios and conditions.

These models help us predict the performance of spacecraft components, assess mission risks, and optimise design parameters.

Leveraging state-of-the-art computational tools and techniques, we can create highly detailed simulations that inform our research and development efforts. Our modelling capabilities are critical for ensuring that our innovations are grounded in robust and reliable data.

Thrust measurements

Precise thrust measurements are vital for the development and testing of propulsion systems.

Our team has established sophisticated facilities and methodologies for measuring the low thrust produced by ion propulsion technologies. These measurements are crucial for validating the performance of our propulsion systems and ensuring they meet the stringent requirements of space missions.

Our expertise in thrust measurement enables us to refine our designs and push the boundaries of what is possible in space propulsion.