Propulsion R&D Division

Designing cutting-edge propulsion isn't easy. However, HSL’s Propulsion R&D Division is here to research, design, and test those systems like never before.

Propulsion Division Lab Work

Overview

Nanosatellite propulsion currently stands as the biggest limiting factor in expanding CubeSat capabilities. This field of work is one that has yet to be "figured out". Propulsion R&D is here to address the biggest issues in CubeSat propulsion and to develop, test, and ultimately deploy some of the most groundbreaking engines to date.

To do so, Propulsion R&D has teams working on different types of engines, all with their own relevancy to the future of HSL and CubeSat technology. Through the success of these systems, Propulsion R&D hopes to empower a new wave of capability and scope expansion for HSL and other CubeSats including deep space maneuvering and control, astronomical observations, and far more.

If you're an engineer who yearns to solve complex problems, are excited about starting from a blank canvas, and are willing to push through relentless failure, then please consider applying to our teams! The following is a brief summary of our current developments and teams:

Bi-Propellant: Develops a high thrust, high deltaV, pressure-fed, bi-propellant engine that fits within a 3U CubeSat volume for orbital maneuvers using nitrous oxide and propane as its oxidizer and fuel.

SteamJet: Develops compact pressurized-gas thrust systems to provide precise reaction-control and station-keeping capabilities. This water-based thruster creates and releases pressurized steam as propulsion, increasing CubeSat accessibility and pursuing the potential for deep space refueling systems.

Solar-Sail: Develops propellant-less propulsion capabilities, harnessing natural phenomenon as a driver for maneuvering in space. This system relies on photon flux from sunlight to generate continuous thrust, enabling long duration and deep space missions without the need to carry propellant.

Electrospray: Develops nano-manufactured ionic thrusters for extremely precise reaction and attitude control. This system aims to push the boundaries of reaction control capabilities for CubeSats to enable a larger mission scope capability such as Astrophysical research.

Electrolysis: Develops a high deltaV, high thrust, pressure-fed, and water based bi-propellant combustion engine. This system is pioneering expanding CubeSat capabilities into deep space territory while utilizing in-situ and green resources.