French startup ThrustMe marked a historic milestone by launching the world's first electric propulsion system for mini-satellites. This groundbreaking thruster ditches conventional xenon for iodine, offering superior storage and affordability.
According to a CNRS press release from November 6, 2020, ThrustMe collaborated with SpaceTy—a specialist in affordable CubeSats—to deploy its innovative electric thruster from Taiyuan, China. Unlike traditional systems relying on xenon gas, this engine uses iodine, which is easier to store, less scarce, and more cost-effective.
ThrustMe founder Ane Aanesland explains that xenon requires complex, high-pressure tanks due to its gaseous state. In contrast, iodine remains solid, enabling compact, robust thrusters that fit in the palm of your hand—as demonstrated by the unit on SpaceTy's mission.
ThrustMe aims to rigorously test this electric propulsion system over months, including orbital maneuvers. The startup plans to refine and commercialize the technology soon, enabling fleets of mini-satellites and constellations akin to SpaceX's Starlink.
"These small satellites deploy in constellations—coordinated groups in synchronized orbits—for comprehensive global coverage. They're ideal for precision agriculture monitoring or high-speed internet. Onboard propulsion is essential for each satellite to reach its precise orbit," notes Ane Aanesland.
A spin-off from a joint CNRS and École Polytechnique laboratory, ThrustMe was nurtured by Paris-based Agoranov incubator for science and tech ventures. In 2017, it secured €2 million in funding, culminating in this pivotal launch.
