Aerojet and NEC to Explore Low Power Ion Propulsion Systems for Satellites

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Aerojet and NEC will explore the feasibility of jointly supplying low power ion propulsion systems for the U.S. and Japanese aerospace markets. Ion propulsion systems can be used for geosynchronous satellite propulsion systems and deep space missions providing significant advantages over traditional chemical propulsion systems due to the higher fuel efficiency.


Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and NEC have jointly developed a low power Microwave Ion Engine that uses microwaves for ion generation, enabling long life and high mission reliability. Aerojet’s electric propulsion products are currently flying on more than 150 operational satellites and span a broad range of electric propulsion products.