The company Miles Space conducted a successful test of the Poseidon M1.5 water electric motor, which is characterized by extremely low energy consumption. This is an important step in the development of compact and efficient space propulsion systems, able to provide long maneuvers in low Earth orbit.
Innovative technology and test results
In September 2024 In 2015, the Poseidon M1.5 engine was tested on a European satellite. Its main feature is the use of water vapor to create plasma thrust, which allows to significantly reduce energy consumption.
During the tests, the following characteristics were recorded:
• Traction – 37,5 mN during 5 minutes
• Specific impulse – 4 800 seconds
• Energy consumption - only 1,5 IN
It is much less, than is required for traditional rocket engines. Example, hydrazine systems have 10 times higher thrust, but lower specific impulse, and Hall engines with similar efficiency consume hundreds of times more energy.
Perspectives of use
Due to the unique combination of high specific impulse and low energy consumption, the Poseidon M1.5 engine can be effective in tasks, where it is important to maintain traction for a long time. This opens up new possibilities for satellite maneuvers, correction of orbits and controlled entry into the atmosphere to remove space debris.
How artificial intelligence helped in the creation of the engine
Engine development was headed by Wesley Faler, chief technologist Miles Space. The process of optimizing the design lasted several years, and artificial intelligence played a key role in it.
Using genetic algorithms, the system tested different configurations of the reaction chamber, parameters of input holes and output voltage. The obtained results were processed by a three-level neural network, which was trained on the basis of engineers' solutions.
This approach made it possible to significantly accelerate the development and creation of the engine, which combines minimal energy consumption and high efficiency.
The future of water propulsion in space
Development of such technologies, yak Poseidon M1.5, can change the approach to space missions. Water-thrust engines could make satellites cheaper, safer and more ecological, and also to ensure greater autonomy of space vehicles.
Given the successful trials, the company Miles Space can become a leader in this segment, and its technologies are an important step in the development of a new era of space navigation.
Source: https://spacenews.com/miles–space–flight–tests–water–fueled–thruster/