Momentus Tests 3D-Printed Propellant Tank for Spacecraft
Space launch company Momentus is developing and preparing to test a 3D-printed propellant tank for its planned orbital transfer vehicles.
Momentus, a company focused on in-space transportation services, has developed a 3D-printed propellant tank. This tank is designed for use in their orbital transfer vehicles (OTVs), which are intended to move satellites between different orbits after launch.
The company plans to conduct static fire tests of this new tank. These tests are a critical step in validating the design and performance of the 3D-printed component under operational conditions. The successful development and testing of such components are crucial for the advancement of Momentus's space transportation capabilities.
Additive manufacturing, or 3D printing, offers potential advantages for spacecraft components, including reduced weight and complexity, and faster production cycles. By utilizing 3D printing for the propellant tank, Momentus aims to leverage these benefits to improve the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of its OTVs.
The company's approach to space propulsion involves using water as a propellant, which is heated and expelled through a microwave-based thruster. The development of a robust and lightweight propellant tank is integral to this system's overall functionality and reliability in the demanding environment of space.
The development of 3D-printed propellant tanks by Momentus signifies a move towards more agile and potentially lighter spacecraft components. This adoption of additive manufacturing in space hardware is crucial for reducing launch mass and manufacturing lead times. Such innovations are key to enabling more cost-effective satellite deployment and in-space servicing, aligning with the broader industry trend of leveraging advanced manufacturing for space applications.
Edited by the news editor with AI from the original report — please refer to the original source.