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Video by Bradley T Bowman

AFRL Explores Swappable Modular Propulsion For Small Satellites

Air Force Research Laboratory

Aug. 9, 2023 | 3:05

The Air Force Research Laboratory is exploring modular propulsion for small satellites, with the aim of demonstrating the concept on orbit within a few years.

The research laboratory intends to establish a standardized interface between a satellite bus and a modular propulsion unit. AFRL envisions that a standardized interface would allow different propulsion products to be integrated more easily into a satellite bus, speeding up upgrades and giving innovative new entrants to the industry the ability to connect their propulsion to satellites.