News
Thrusters & Thoughts: Real people. Real science. Real space impact.
At IFACT, we believe that science is more than data, calculations, and propulsion systems — it’s also about the people behind it. That’s why we’re launching "Thrusters & Thought: Real people. Real science. Real space impact." — a new storytelling series that brings you closer to the minds and personalities shaping the future of space technology.
Kicking off the series is our coordinator, Gerrit Kottke, offering a fresh perspective not just on technical achievements, but on what drives us as individuals in this ambitious European collaboration.
IFACT-MP on Zenodo: Sharing Knowledge Beyond the Lab
The IFACT-MP project is committed not only to advancing electric propulsion technologies but also to fostering open knowledge and scientific transparency. Through our official Zenodo community page, we make our research outcomes accessible to all.
Here, you’ll find a growing collection of technical deliverables, scientific publications, and dissemination materials covering a wide range of topics — from advanced iodine-fed propulsion systems to mission analysis and environmental assessments.
The 4th 2024 issue of the EASN - European Aeronautics Science Network newsletter is out!
The most recent edition of the EASN - European Aeronautics Science Network Newsletter includes an update on the iFACT-MP project, emphasizing the progress we are making in developing a cutting-edge thruster subsystem using iodine fuel within the 3-5 kW power range.
Enjoy the read! https://newsletter.easn.net/issues/newsletter-2024-issue-4/easn-supported-projects/iodine-fed-advanced-cusp-field-thruster-mid
Launching new video series: Ask the Researchers! Airbus Friedrichshafen
We’re excited to announce the launch of our “Ask the Researchers” video series, showcasing the incredible people driving the iFACT-MP project forward!
In this series, you’ll get an inside look at the expertise, and leadership guiding this project, starting with an exclusive look at the Airbus Friedrichshafen team in our first episode.
Stay tuned—our first video is going live today on LinkedIn and YouTube!
Join us in celebrating the collaborative spirit behind iFACT-MP and meet the people shaping the future of aerospace innovation.
The 3rd 2024 issue of the EASN - European Aeronautics Science Network #newsletter is out!
The iFACT-MP initiative, short for iodine Fed Advanced Cusp field Thruster for Mid-Power, launched in January 2024, is a 24-month project funded by the European Union. Its primary objective is to enhance and solidify Europe's leading role in iodine EP (Electric Propulsion).
The project team has been busy promoting iFACT-MP across multiple channels!
Exciting Updates from the iFACT-MP Project!
We are thrilled to share the key objectives of the iFACT-MP project, which is dedicated to developing an iodine-fed thruster subsystem for the 3-5 kW power range and advancing it to TRL5. Here's what we're working on:
Happy to share our latest factsheet, showcasing the impactful benefits the iFACT-MP project will deliver!
Sustainability: Iodine is a sustainable choice for green propellant in satellite missions because it can be efficiently recycled from industrial waste with minimal energy use, meeting pharmaceutical standards, reducing environmental impact and supporting closed-loop systems.
iFACT-MP project introduction video
We are excited to reveal the iFACT-MP project introduction video, showcasing the pioneering initiative set to revolutionize iodine Electric Propulsion technology.
This cutting-edge project, funded by the European Union and led by industry and research leaders, aims to develop an innovative iodine-fed thruster subsystem that delivers superior performance and efficiency within the 3-5 kW power range.
Watch our introduction video to learn more about this groundbreaking project.
We are delighted to share our first factsheet, highlighting the remarkable economic and technical advantages of our cutting-edge solutions.
The iFACT-MP Electric Propulsion System (EPS) is set to become the preferred choice for future satellite missions and constellations. After project completion, we expect the iFACT-MP to reach sufficient TRL for space mission insertion within two years, aiming for market introduction in 2027/2028.
iFACT-MP Project Debuts with a Bang: Engaging Presentations at Two Conferences!
At the recent IEPC 2024 in Toulouse, our coordinator Gerrit Kottke from Airbus FDH provided an insightful presentation on the iFACT-MP project! He discussed the innovative advancements of the iodine-fed Advanced Cusp Field Thruster for Mid-Power, marking a significant leap forward in space propulsion technology.