Axelspace and Manastu explore orbital test of green propulsion system

(SpaceEnergy) Japan's Axelspace has signed a memorandum of understanding with India's Manastu Space Technologies to examine an orbital demonstration of a green spacecraft propulsion system using its AxelLiner Laboratory service.

Announcing the agreement on 26 October, Axelspace said the companies would assess the technical requirements for integrating Manastu's propulsion technology into an Axelspace spacecraft.

Manastu is developing propulsion systems for satellites and rocket upper stages using MS-289, a proprietary hydrogen peroxide- and alcohol-based propellant containing specialised additives.

The formulation is designed to improve propulsion efficiency, reliability and handling safety while reducing dependence on toxic conventional propellants.

The proposed demonstration would use AxelLiner Laboratory (AL Lab), Axelspace's service for testing spacecraft components and mission equipment in orbit.

Established in 2024, AL Lab is intended to help manufacturers obtain flight heritage by verifying equipment performance and reliability under actual space conditions.

Axelspace has previously secured an agreement with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) to provide orbital demonstration services.

The company is also preparing to demonstrate a reaction wheel developed with Japanese manufacturer ASPINA Shinano Kenshi aboard its GRUS-3 satellite platform.

Under the new memorandum, Axelspace and Manastu will jointly investigate spacecraft integration requirements and the feasibility of an orbital demonstration.

Neither company disclosed a contract value, launch schedule or confirmed flight assignment.