Phase Four, the creator of the radio-frequency thruster for satellite propulsion, announced that a Maxwell engine was launched onboard a Capella Space SAR satellite on the SpaceX Transporter-2 dedicated rideshare launch on June 30th. This marks the company’s fourth engine sent to space with Capella since January 24th of 2021.
“Over the past 2 years we’ve developed a strong working relationship with Phase Four,” said Capella Space CTO, Christian Lenz. “The Maxwell systems in our satellites have been functioning nominally in the lab and in orbit, and Phase Four has provided great customer service all along the way. This has given us confidence to order additional engines. We look forward to continuing our partnership and look forward to future advances in Phase Four’s technology.”
Maxwell engines are designed to allow in-space mobility over several years, significantly extending the life of LEO satellites in order to maximize ROI on each satellite in a constellation. Maxwell, now referred to as Maxwell Block 1, at 19 centimeters x 13.5 cm x 19 cm (7.5 inches x 5 in. x 7.5 in.) and under 6 kilograms (13 pounds), is the lightest, most compact turn-key plasma propulsion system in its class. Phase Four recently introduced two new versions of Maxwell – Maxwell Block 2 and Block 3 – to address a larger segment of the satellite industry.
“We have worked closely with Capella to develop, enhance, produce, launch and operate our first Maxwell Block 1 propulsion systems,” said Phase Four CTO, Umair Siddiqui. “Thanks to this partnership we have flight data that confirms successful on-orbit operations of the first electrodeless RF thruster to ever fly in space. We’re honored to continue working with the Capella Space team, and are looking forward to delivering additional, more advanced Maxwell units in the near future.”
Two recently built Maxwell Block 1 engine flight units being prepared for customer delivery. © Phase Four
