Jinwu Electric Propulsion System
The Jinwu Electric Propulsion System is Hongqing Technology next-generation argon-fueled electric propulsion platform, developed entirely in-house for commercial LEO satellite applications. It has been validated on orbit with 4,089 ignition cycles and a 100% success rate, accumulating 1,434 km of cumulative orbital maneuver altitude as of June 8, 2026. The system is composed of three […]
Technical specifications
- Propellant
- Argon (Ar)
- In-Orbit Ignition Cycles
- 4,089 (verified as of June 8, 2026)
- Ignition Success Rate
- 100%
- Cumulative Orbital Maneuver Altitude
- 1,434 km
- Supply Module - Pressure Regulation Ratio
- >300:1
- Supply Module - Control Method
- PID closed-loop
- Supply Module - Pressure Response Time
- <30 s
- Supply Module - Pressure Accuracy
- +/-2%
- Supply Module - Flow Range
- 0-50 sccm
- Supply Module - Mass
- 500 g
- Power Module - Power Density Improvement
- 3-5x vs. previous generation
- Power Module - Radiation Tolerance
- >80 Krad (Si) total dose
- Power Module - Single Event Upset Protection
- >37.5 MeV
- Thruster Module - Anode Design
- Conical anode swirl flow
- Thruster Module - Magnetic Configuration
- Magnetic lens with permanent magnet anode
About
The Jinwu Electric Propulsion System is Hongqing Technology next-generation argon-fueled electric propulsion platform, developed entirely in-house for commercial LEO satellite applications. It has been validated on orbit with 4,089 ignition cycles and a 100% success rate, accumulating 1,434 km of cumulative orbital maneuver altitude as of June 8, 2026.
The system is composed of three integrated modules: the Electric Propulsion Storage and Supply Module for precision propellant flow control, the Electric Propulsion Power Module for high-efficiency power conversion with radiation hardness, and the Electric Propulsion Thruster Module incorporating advanced magnetic lens and conical anode swirl-flow technologies to minimize electrode erosion and extend operational life.
Compared to legacy propulsion systems, Jinwu offers higher specific impulse, extended lifespan, and lower cost-per-unit-impulse, making it well-suited for mass-production satellite constellations. The thruster uses argon propellant, which is non-toxic, inexpensive, and widely available, simplifying ground handling and reducing launch safety restrictions.
Documentation
No public datasheet yet — request the datasheet / ICD from the supplier.
