Space Drone manufacturer announces another small step

Intergalactic logistics company Effective Space has partnered with ArianeGroup to help get its Space Drone project off the ground.

The latter company will provide an electric propulsion system in the shape of its Arclight radio frequency ion thruster technology. According to a statement, it will also enable complete station keeping, as well as altitude control services.

The agreement follows the recent announcement that Effective Space has won a $100 million, multi-year contract, with an international satellite operator. The first contracted Space Drone launch is planned to take place in 2020.

Speaking of the partnership, Arie Halsband, founder and CEO of Effective Space said: “ArianeGroup is a renowned and respected industry leader, and the Arclight technology is best in class. We are honoured to be working with the company.

“This announcement marks another key milestone in securing an ecosystem of manufacturing, launch, operations and ancillary services with leading partners, supporting a program that will deliver substantial cost savings to satellite operators and opening the door to new opportunities."

Halsband continued: “The highly efficient Arclight electric propulsion system offers a significant weight advantage, helping to limit the weight of Space Drone to approximately 400kg. This is a significant factor in minimising launch costs and maximising mission life span.”