ONERA, ThrustMe, and Airbus Defence and Space Explore Iodine-Based Propulsion for Large Satellites

ONERA, ThrustMe, and Airbus Defence and Space have initiated the IPISC project (Iodine Propulsion Interaction with Satellites and Components), supported by ESA and CNES. This project aims to evaluate the potential of iodine as a new propellant for satellites weighing over 500 kg, focusing on the interaction between iodine propulsion systems and a range of satellite materials and components. Iodine-based propulsion offers an alternative to noble gases like xenon.