RocketStar unveils fusion-enhanced electric thruster for spacecraft
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Mar 25, 2024
In a leap forward for space propulsion technology, RocketStar Inc. has demonstrated its FireStar Drive, an advanced spacecraft electric propulsion unit that leverages nuclear fusion to enhance pulsed plasma propulsion. By introducing aneutronic nuclear fusion into its water-fueled pulsed plasma thruster, the FireStar Drive markedly improves performance, utilizing high-speed protons from ionized water vapor. When these protons interact with boron nuclei, it triggers fusion, producing high-energy carbon that decays into alpha particles, thereby boosting thrust.

The fusion technique was first identified in a collaborative effort during an SBIR Phase 1 project for AFWERX, which saw boronated water introduced to the pulsed plasma thruster's exhaust, leading to the generation of alpha particles and gamma rays. Further validation came during an SBIR Phase 2 project at the High Power Electric Propulsion Laboratory (HPEPL) in Atlanta, Georgia, enhancing the propulsion unit's thrust by 50%.

Adam Hecht, Professor of Nuclear Engineering at the University of New Mexico, lauded RocketStar's innovative approach, emphasizing the technological leap represented by the fusion-fission reaction within the thruster's exhaust. Chris Craddock, CEO of RocketStar, credited the initial concept to a collaborative effort with Wes Faler of Miles Space, now CTO of RocketStar following the company's acquisition. This partnership has culminated in the fusion-enhanced thruster, promising remarkable performance improvements.

RocketStar is gearing up to deliver the M1.5 thruster to customers, with space demonstrations slated for July and October aboard D-Orbit's OTV ION Satellite Carrier on SpaceX Transporter missions. Matteo Lorenzoni of D-Orbit expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration and the upcoming in-orbit performance assessment.

Further plans include extensive ground testing and an in-space demonstration of the FireStar Drive scheduled for February 2025 on Rogue Space System's Barry-2 spacecraft. Brent Abbott of Rogue Space Systems conveyed excitement about testing the innovative thruster and its potential for future missions.

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