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Active TRL 4 (started at 4, targeting 7)
Juno Propulsion is developing a novel high-thrust, high-efficiency propulsion system utilizing rotating detonation rocket engine technology. Our product leverages the 5-10% higher specific impulse of rotating detonation rocket engine (RDRE) technology to be competitive with current hypergolic bi-propellant solutions, enabling a 50% increase in payload capacity, 10% lifespan increase, doubling speed to target, and use of green propellants.
Problem Statement
New demands for agile in-space operations have driven an increased need for high-thrust, high-efficiency propulsion. The state of the art employs hydrazine and nitrogen tetroxide because of their higher performance and hypergolicity. However, major drawbacks include toxicity, high cost ($1000s/kg), supply chain risks, and inherent complexity due to the need for a pressurant system. By using RDRE technology, Juno’s thruster can improve the specific impulse by up to 5% over the state of the art with non-toxic fuels of nitrous oxide and ethane.
Technology Maturation
The benefit of an orbital test is performance characterization in a vacuum, low-g environment. To date, RDREs have been almost exclusively tested on the ground and under sea-level atmospheric conditions. Our test will determine thrust delivered, specific impulse, and torque of the flight platform. Finally, demonstration of an RDRE in a space environment provides flight heritage for commercial validation.
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