Founded in 2019, Magdrive is
developing the next generation of satellite propulsion with a high-power
electric plasma thruster with high manoeuvrability and efficiency. This enables
new capabilities in space in close-proximity operations for satellite servicing
and orbital assembly, and in stochastic movement to make defense satellites
untraceable.
Magdrive is a company of 12
engineers and scientists, including 4 plasma physics PhDs. Magdrive is backed
by major US venture capital, UK government, and ESA, for a range of projects
including its core product, as well as an electric third kick stage for launch
vehicles and space qualifying super conducting magnets.
Magdrive launched its first
prototype in January 2023 with space qualified hardware on board a third-party
satellite, has begun work on its Engineering Model, and is producing thrust at
its lab at the Harwell Campus, Oxfordshire.