Arkadia Space successfully validates its green propulsion system, developed entirely in Spain, in orbit.
Arkadia Space has begun to successfully operate its green propulsion system in space, marking a historic milestone for the Spanish and European space sector. The propulsion system, called DARK, launched on March 15 aboard a satellite of the company d-orbit, during the Transporter-13 mission SpaceXSince then, the system has demonstrated optimal performance under real-world operating conditions, validating the technology developed by the Castellón-based startup in recent years.
According to Matteo A. Lorenzoni, VP of Commercial Strategy at D-Orbit, “We are proud to have hosted Arkadia Space’s DARK module on our ION satellite. From the very beginning, working with the Arkadia Space team has been a true pleasure, and every step of our collaboration has been seamless and enriching. Seeing DARK operational in orbit is a huge milestone, and we are happy to have played a part in making it possible.”
One of the most important elements of a satellite is its propulsion system, in charge of carrying out key maneuvers throughout its useful life. These engines allow a satellite to reach its final orbit after launch, correct its trajectory, maintain its orientation, avoid collisions with space debris, or even deorbit at the end of the mission to avoid leaving debris in space.
In short, without propulsion, Many satellites would not be able to perform their function or operate safely.. Therefore, the success of the DARK system in orbit is especially relevant: confirms that the technology developed by Arkadia Space is not only viable, but also safe, reliable and efficientFurthermore, the entire system management, from engine control to data collection and satellite communications, has been carried out with software and electronics developed entirely by the Castellón-based technology company.
The system that uses as fuel, high concentration hydrogen peroxide, was designed to offer a sustainable alternative to traditional engines based on toxic fuels. In the words of Francho Garcia, CEO and co-founder of Arkadia Space, "Developing the system in record time and seeing it perform exactly as intended in space is the best demonstration of what the Arkadia Space team is capable of. This success sends a clear message to our customers: we're moving into commercial use, and we're ready to sell propulsion systems that have been successfully tested in space."
The mission also served to successfully validate all components of the propulsion system. Since the engines, responsible for generating the thrust necessary for orbital maneuvers, up to the fuel tanks. In addition, the following were tested in orbit: electronic systems and control software, which manage engine operation, data collection, temperature regulation, and communications with the host satellite.
Furthermore, the pre-launch fueling procedures, carried out by the team itself at the space base of Vandenberg (California), were successfully executed, completing a comprehensive system validation. As indicated Ismael Gutierrez, CTO and co-founder of Arkadia Space, "We've given our all on this first mission. The plan was ambitious, with many risks, and we needed the greatest certainty to reach space. For us, D-Orbit has been that trusted partner. It's been an incredible journey, and our team has thoroughly enjoyed working with them to make this challenge a reality." With this mission, Arkadia Space is positioned as the first European company to have demonstrated a propulsion system in orbit. based on hydrogen peroxide.
Arkadia Space
Arkadia Space specializes in the development and marketing of green engines and propulsion systems, with the aim of providing space platforms and vehicles with mobility in space. In this regard, Francho Garcia, Ismael Gutierrez, Francisco Espinosa y Sergio Soler They founded the company in 2020.
The Castellón startup develops its activity in podcast, and has a testing center at Castellón Airport, advancing the commercialization of its technology and the development of high-performance hypergolic bipropellant engines. It also continues to expand its testing infrastructure to meet the growing demand for green propulsion solutions in the space sector.
