Jay Clemens
Space Systems Loral and Busek Co. have agreed to further the development work for a solar electric propulsion aircraft in an effort to help meet future requirements of NASA and other government agencies.
Matteo Genna, chief technology officer of SSL, said Monday the collaboration with Busek will help to advance the development of a thruster production capability.
“Working together will put us at the forefront of advances that will benefit satellite operators and are essential to the development of future space infrastructure and space exploration,†added Genna.
SSL has developed a number of satellites powered by solar electric propulsion systems.
Busek built the first Hall Effect thruster and provides propulsion systems to the Defense Department and NASA.
