A new type of propulsion system could allow satellites to fly closer to Earth than ever before without being dragged down by the planet’s atmosphere.
Spanish startup Kreios Space developed an air-breathing electric propulsion system that collects residual gases from the atmosphere, like oxygen and nitrogen, and uses them as propellant for a satellite’s thrusters. The new technology would allow satellites to stay in very low Earth orbit (VLEO), circling our planet at roughly 60 miles to 250 miles (100 to 400 kilometers) above the surface.
The air-breathing system will be put to its first test in space during an upcoming mission in 2028, Kreios…
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