Multi-Modal Electric Propulsion Engine (MEPE)
Aurora Propulsion Technologies
5U dual-mode electric propulsion system combining Hall-effect thruster and resistojet modes with green propellant — orbital maneuvers up to 150 kg, flew as IOD in 2023.
Key figurescomparable across the catalogue
- Mass
- 150 kg
Normalised to common units so this product can be compared with others in its category. The supplier's own wording is below.
As published by the supplier
- Form factor
- 5U
- Propulsion modes
- Hall-effect thruster + resistojet
- Propellant
- Green (non-toxic)
- Max serviceable satellite mass
- ~150 kg
- Flight heritage
- IOD launched 2023 (ORB-12 STRIDER)
- Wet mass
- ~ 5 kg
- Propellant mass
- ~ 1 kg
- Thrust
- 3 mN (MUSIC), 1 mN (ARM, per thruster)
- Specific impulse
- ~ 1000 s (MUSIC), ~ 40 s (ARM)
- Power
- 100 W (MUSIC), 4 W (ARM, per thruster)
- Interface
- RS422
- Total impulse
- 10 kNs
About
The Multi-Modal Electric Propulsion Engine (MEPE) combines the efficiency of a Hall-effect thruster with the versatility of resistojet propulsion in a single 5U system. This dual-mode approach provides both high thrust and high specific impulse, enabling optimal maneuverability across a wide range of mission phases, including deep space applications.
MEPE uses a green (non-toxic) propellant and is built with a modular housing for easy spacecraft integration. It supports orbital maneuvers for satellites up to approximately 150 kg and was demonstrated in orbit as an in-orbit demonstration (IOD) launched in 2023, including flight aboard the ORB-12 STRIDER mission.
Documentation
Need the full ICD, test reports or a specific revision? Ask the supplier directly.