General Galactic, a startup founded by former SpaceX engineer Halen Mattison and Varda Space veteran Luke Neise, is preparing to test a water-based propellant for space travel. The concept of using water as rocket fuel has long been a theoretical cornerstone of space exploration, with the potential to significantly alter the landscape of interplanetary travel.
The startup plans to launch an 1,100-pound satellite this fall, relying solely on water as its propellant source. If successful, this approach could address the challenges associated with fuel availability in space and enhance satellite maneuverability.
General Galactic’s CEO, Halen Mattison, envisions a future where their technology could support missions such as establishing a refueling network in space and even constructing a gas station on Mars. This represents a shift in how we approach space exploration and underscores the startup’s commitment to advancing propulsion technologies.
By demonstrating the feasibility of water-based propellants in orbit, General Galactic aims to pave the way for more sustainable and cost-effective space travel solutions. This milestone could have far-reaching implications for the aerospace industry, potentially opening up new possibilities for future space missions and resource utilization beyond Earth.
Source: WIRED