MIT Develops Dual-Mode Satellite Propulsion
Analysis based on 6 articles · First reported Jun 02, 2026 · Last updated Jun 13, 2026
The development of this dual-mode propulsion system by Massachusetts Institute of Technology, with collaboration from United States — NASA and using United States-developed propellant, is expected to significantly enhance the capabilities of small satellites. This could lead to increased investment and innovation in the aerospace and satellite communications industries, as cheaper and more versatile satellites become available for various missions, including deep-space exploration and Earth observation.
Engineers at Massachusetts Institute of Technology have developed a revolutionary dual-mode propulsion system for small satellites, combining the speed of chemical thrusters with the efficiency of electric electrospray thrusters. This innovation utilizes a single 'green monopropellant' called ASCENT, originally developed by the United States, eliminating the need for separate fuel tanks. The system allows small satellites to perform both rapid maneuvers and precise, long-duration travel, opening new possibilities for scientific observations and complex missions. Amelia Bruno, Paulo Lozano, and Matthew Corrado are key researchers involved in this project. United States — NASA is collaborating on the Green Propulsion Dual Mode mission, scheduled for November, to test this technology in space. If successful, this could enable CubeSats to explore beyond Earth's orbit, including Mars and the asteroid belt, and improve Earth observation capabilities.
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