NanoAvionics engineers run qualification tests. Photo: NanoAvionics.

NanoAvionics, a nano-spacecraft equipment manufacturer from Lithuania, has received two investments totaling 3.2 million euros ($3.5 million). The company will use the Intelektas LT grant to finalize the development of its Enabling Propulsion System for Small Satellites (EPSS), while the EU Program for Research and Innovation H2020 SME-2 will support EPSS commercialization and pilot customer engagement activities.

NanoAvionics is working to address the need for a low-cost and high-performance chemical propulsion system for small satellites, which would be compatible with CubeSats. NanoAvionics has been developing its chemical propulsion system since 2009. According to the company, it has already passed extensive testing programs and will have an in-orbit demonstration on June 2017, where it will maneuver LituanicaSat 2 as part of the QB50 mission.

NanoAvionics estimates that the EPSS will prolong the orbital lifetime of LituanicaSat 2 by the factor of four. Additionally, according to NanoAvionics, it can permit small satellites to achieve orbital maneuvering ability, accurate attitude and orientation control, drag compensation, and other missions and roles in orbital flight. The EPSS makes use of a non-toxic fuel, replacing the hydrazine-based propellant used by large-scale satellite technologies, and adheres to the European Space Agency’s (ESA) and NASA’s Clean Space Initiative. Moreover, it is modular in design and can be integrated with small satellites up to 150kg.

NanoAvionics has stated there are ongoing negotiations with undisclosed pilot customers. Based on LituanicaSat 2 experience, the EPSS will be commercially available early next year.