New Publication: Recent advancements and technology development roadmap of Water Electrolysis Propulsion Thrusters

Advancing Water-Based Propulsion for Spacecraft

Ice2Thrust.Space has published a new scientific paper presenting recent advancements in Water Electrolysis Propulsion (WEP) thrusters and outlining a clear technology development roadmap toward high-performance, green space propulsion.

The paper shows how water can serve as a safe, non-toxic alternative to conventional chemical propellants. By splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen onboard a spacecraft, Water Electrolysis Propulsion enables efficient thrust generation while simplifying handling, refuelling, and long-term mission operations.

A key focus of the study is the development of high-efficiency hot-gas thrusters, including experimental results on innovative cooling techniques and reliable ignition systems. These advances are essential to unlocking higher performance levels that can surpass today’s commonly used storable propulsion systems, while supporting repeated ignition and long operational lifetimes.

The publication marks an important step in Ice2Thrust.Space’s mission to enable sustainable, refillable, and scalable in-space mobility — a cornerstone for future satellite servicing, space infrastructure, and a circular space economy.

Authors:

• Sascha Dengler, Project Manager WEP Thruster (Researcher), Technical University of Munich.
• Prof. Chiara Manfletti, Principal Investigator Professor for Space Mobility and Propulsion (Supervisor), Technical University of Munich.

📄 Read the full paper here: Recent advancements and technology development roadmap of Water Electrolysis Propulsion Thrusters within the Ice2Thrust project: https://zenodo.org/records/17833952