Warm Gas Generator Resistojet Micropropulsion System

In this SBIR Phase II-E project, Benchmark Space Systems proposes to build a resistojet micropropulsion system based on proprietary warm gas generator technology. A bench top demonstrator of the system was built during the Phase II effort and the major effort of this extension is to work with an identified partner on integration and on-orbit demonstration of the system. The key advantages of the proposed system include: Unpressurized launch: The system is launched unpressurized, and then pressurizes after a post-launch checkout. This eliminates risk associated with pressurized launches. Long Term Storage: Since the system does not need to be pressurized until thrust is required, it can sit in a quiescent state for up to 2 years with no performance degradation or propellant lost to leakage. High Thrust: The system is capable of operating at thrust levels up to 1N, making it viable for impulsive maneuvers. Low Cost: The system is based around commercial-off-the-shelf components and a low-cost propellant, making it attractive for both NASA and commercial customers. This technical effort will fund the further development and satellite integration of the system tested in Phase II.

NASA has identified CubeSats and SmallSats as a valuable platform for performing technology demonstrations and scientific research on a modest budget. Past, planned, or anticipated missions using CubeSats include Earth observation, Low Earth Orbit activities, and Lunar and deep space missions. Propulsion is a key enabling technology for many future mission concepts, and the characteristics of the system developed, tested and flown in this Phase II-E SBIR Project offer a meaningful enhancement to current state-of- the-art.

There are dozens of announced commercial constellations based around CubeSats/SmallSats, representing tens of thousands of potential new small satellites in orbit. The propulsion system developed, tested and flown as a result of this Phase II-E project would be well-suited to the safety, performance, and cost considerations of the commercial market.

This is a mature technology (TRL 7) — the realistic path in is usually NASA's Technology Transfer Program: licensing an existing NASA patent, or a Space Act Agreement to use NASA facilities/expertise directly. NASA also runs a startup licensing program with no upfront fee for companies formed to commercialize a specific NASA technology.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.