D-Orbit says it has signed a launch services contract with Pale Blue, a Japanese company specialising in versatile, water-based propulsion systems suitable for spacecraft ranging from 3U CubeSats to 700kg satellites. Under the agreement, D-Orbit will conduct an in-orbit validation mission of Pale Blue’s innovative water-based ion thrusters using its orbital transfer vehicle, ION Satellite Carrier.
The contract includes the integration of two propulsion systems on board D-Orbit’s ION Satellite Carrier and also covers the operational period. The missions are scheduled for launch in June and October 2025.
“Water-based propulsion technology aligns perfectly with D-Orbit’s commitment to sustainable space operations,” commented Renato Panesi, co-founder and CCO of D-Orbit, in a note. “Thanks to our consolidated experience in in-orbit demonstrations and the proven versatility of the ION Satellite Carrier, we are pleased to support Pale Blue in the development of their innovative propulsion solution.
The mission will serve to validate two of Pale Blue’s propulsion systems. These water-based systems offer a safe, cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional space propulsion systems, eliminating the need for high-pressure storage while ensuring high levels of performance.
“We are extremely excited to conduct the in-orbit demonstration of the world’s first water-based ion thruster, an innovative and sustainable solution for the space industry,” says Jun Asakawa, co-founder and CEO of Pale Blue (pictured with Panesi). “By collaborating with D-Orbit, we are taking a significant step towards validating the performance and reliability of our propulsion technology. This collaboration will enable us to meet growing demand by contributing to space sustainability. We are confident that our water-based propulsion system will redefine the future of satellite missions and open up new possibilities for space exploration.
Founded in 2020 by propulsion specialists from the University of Tokyo, Pale Blue has developed a patented miniaturised Electron Cyclotron Resonance (ECR) technology that allows their thrusters to maximise the benefits of water as a propellant while maintaining high levels of performance. The systems are designed to serve spacecraft ranging from 3U CubeSats to 700kg satellites.
The mission will utilise D-Orbit’s ION Satellite Carrier, a spacecraft that has proven its versatility through 14 successful missions, performing multiple satellite release operations, payload handling and in-orbit demonstrations.
“This contract with Pale Blue represents an exciting first step in D-Orbit’s journey into the Japanese market, and we are excited to support the validation of such a pioneering propulsion technology,” adds Ash Takao, D-Orbit’s sales development manager and a member of Marubeni Corporation, one of D-Orbit’s major investors. “As our first collaboration with a Japanese company, this contract highlights our commitment to strengthening ties with Japan’s advanced space sector and expanding D-Orbit’s presence in the Asia-Pacific region.
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