Turn-key RF electrodeless plasma propulsion system for 20–500 kg satellites — 5.9 kg dry, 8–18 mN thrust, 600–1,300 s Isp, supports Xe/Kr/ASCENT/Hydrazine, from $250,000.
Maxwell Block 3 RF Plasma Thruster
Turn-key RF electrodeless plasma propulsion system for 20–500 kg satellites — 5.9 kg dry, 8–18 mN thrust, 600–1,300 s Isp, supports Xe/Kr/ASCENT/Hydrazine, from $250,000.
Description
Maxwell is Phase Four's complete turn-key plasma propulsion solution for small satellites in the 20–500 kg class. It combines a proprietary radio-frequency electrodeless plasma thruster with miniaturized power electronics, a propellant management system, and flight software in a single unit. Unlike Hall Effect thrusters, Maxwell's electrodeless architecture eliminates high-voltage components and cathodes, enabling instant startup with no warm-up. Block 3 is the first electrodeless thruster to match or exceed Hall Effect Thruster performance when operated with krypton. The system supports multi-mode operation with Xenon, Krypton, ASCENT, and Hydrazine propellants.
Specifications
| Dry mass | 5.9 kg |
|---|---|
| Total mass (with 1 kg Xe tank) | 8.4 kg |
| Dimensions | 19 × 13.5 × 19 cm |
| Operating power | 300–500 W |
| Supply voltage | 22–34 V |
| Thrust range | 8–18 mN |
| Specific impulse | 600–1,300 s |
| Total impulse | Up to 14,000 N·s |
| Propellants | Xe, Kr, ASCENT, Hydrazine |
| Interface | RS-422 |
| Target satellite class | 20–500 kg |