ArianeGroup, Space Solutions plan new satellite propulsion platform

(SpaceEnergy) European propulsion manufacturer ArianeGroup has signed an agreement with South Korea's Space Solutions Co. to cooperate on developing and commercialising a modular propulsion platform for low Earth orbit satellite constellations.

The memorandum of understanding was announced on 6 October during the International Astronautical Congress in Antalya, Turkey.

The proposed platform will be based on ArianeGroup's Advanced Monopropellant Propulsion System (AMPS), with the companies seeking to combine their expertise in propulsion technology, precision manufacturing and systems integration.

ArianeGroup said the compact, modular architecture was designed to support satellite deployment, orbital station-keeping, collision avoidance manoeuvres and end-of-life disposal.

The companies intend to cooperate on manufacturing, testing and integration processes, targeting improvements in production efficiency and system quality for satellite constellations.

Space Solutions, a South Korean specialist in spacecraft propulsion technology, will contribute its industrial capabilities to the proposed collaboration.

The agreement forms part of ArianeGroup's efforts to expand its orbital propulsion business beyond launch vehicles and lunar spacecraft systems.

ArianeGroup has not disclosed the proposed platform's thrust, specific impulse, propellant capacity or production targets.

Neither company announced a contract value, manufacturing timetable or initial customer.

The agreement establishes a framework for industrial cooperation rather than confirming the completion, qualification or commercial deployment of the propulsion platform.