Aurora Resistojet Module for Orbit Control (ARM-O)
Aurora Propulsion Technologies
Modular water-propellant resistojet thruster system for orbit control — collision avoidance and small orbital maneuvers on SmallSats, CubeSats, and PicoSats.
Technical specifications
- Propellant
- Water
- Thrust-to-Power vs FEEP
- ~10x higher
- Specific Impulse vs Cold Gas
- ~2x higher
- Target Platforms
- SmallSats, CubeSats, PicoSats
- IOD Status
- Planned 2026
About
The Aurora Resistojet Module for Orbit Control (ARM-O) is a modular propulsion system that uses water as a safe, non-toxic propellant to provide reliable orbit control for small satellites. It is designed for collision avoidance and small orbital maneuvers, offering an efficient and compact alternative to conventional cold gas or electric propulsion.
ARM-O delivers roughly ten times more thrust per unit of power compared to FEEP (Field Emission Electric Propulsion) systems and roughly double the specific impulse of cold gas thrusters, combining the safety benefits of a non-toxic propellant with meaningfully higher performance than comparable micropropulsion alternatives. The system is targeted for an in-orbit demonstration (IOD) in 2026.
Documentation
Need the full ICD, test reports or a specific revision? Ask the supplier directly.
