NASA to Launch 2-in-1 Cubesat Propulsion Test No Earlier Than November

2 articles · Updated · Space.com · Jun 9

NASA plans to launch its Green Propulsion Dual Mode cubesat no earlier than November to test in orbit whether one propellant can run both chemical and electric thrusters.
MIT ground tests found the non-toxic ASCENT monopropellant delivered electrospray thrust comparable to standard propellants, supporting the idea of a single fuel system for small satellites.
That setup could free up space and cut complexity on cubesats, letting them make both fast orbital maneuvers and slower precision adjustments on smaller, cheaper platforms.
NASA says the low Earth orbit demo could inform deeper-space missions, while MIT researchers also see uses closer to Earth, including rapidly repositioning weather-observing satellite constellations.

Sources

Space.com11h ago

NASA Cubesat to Test 2-in-1 Green Propulsion System for Small Satellites

academia.edu11h ago

PDF) Small Satellites for Space Science

Can one green fuel give small satellites both the high speed and extreme endurance needed for deep space missions?

This 'greener' rocket fuel burns incredibly hot. Can tiny satellite materials actually withstand its power without failing?

Dual-Mode Green Propulsion for CubeSats: NASA’s GPDM Mission Ushers in a New Era of Small Satellite Agility

Overview

Small satellite operations are entering a new era, driven by the need for more versatile and capable spacecraft. The NASA Green Propulsion Dual Mode (GPDM) mission, launched after November 2025, is at the forefront of this transformation. By showcasing advanced propulsion technology, the GPDM mission aims to enhance maneuverability and extend the operational lifespans of CubeSats and other small satellites. Its primary objective is to demonstrate dual-mode operations using a green propulsion system that combines chemical and electrospray thrusters within a common propellant tank, marking a significant step forward for small satellite propulsion.

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