Bogong thruster: clean, green naphthalene

The Bogong Thruster: A Green, Efficient Propulsion Solution

Welcome to the world of the Bogong thruster, a revolutionary innovation in propulsion technology. Our thruster employs naphthalene, a clean and environmentally friendly propellant, setting new standards for attitude and orbit control systems in small satellites. In our continuous pursuit of excellence, we have upgraded our initial versions from simple cold gas thrusters to cutting-edge solutions that utilize advanced nozzles and heated gas. These enhancements significantly boost both thrust and specific impulse, ensuring top-tier performance.

Boswell Technologies (BT) has joined forces with Skykraft Pty. Ltd. and the Space Plasma, Power, and Propulsion (SP3) group at the prestigious Australian National University to design, manufacture, and rigorously test the first generation of Bogong thrusters. The remarkable Bogong 1.0 model has already been delivered to Skykraft and seamlessly integrated into their satellite, which was successfully launched aboard SpaceX in January 2023. As we push the boundaries of innovation, the improved Bogong 1.1 version is in the works, ready for its second flight set for mid-2023.

In parallel, BT and SP3 are jointly developing the second generation of Bogong thrusters, following the Cubesat protocol. With this novel approach, our thruster hardware occupies approximately 50% of a 1U Cubesat, allowing for a generous payload of propellant.

Professor Boswell holding Bogong 1.0

Bogong thrusters: Simple and Robust

Bogong thrusters stand out for their simplicity and robustness. We avoid high-pressure gases and highly reactive propellants like iodine, all while minimizing power consumption.

Bogong 2.0 is on the horizon, featuring thrusts of a few milliNewtons and specific impulses of up to 50 seconds. What sets it apart is its high volumetric impulse, as naphthalene, in solid form, sublimates to provide gas as needed. The first generation of Bogong thrusters is now readily available, and we invite your inquiries. At Boswell Technologies, we offer some flexibility in design and performance characteristics to cater to your specific needs. Join us on this journey of innovation and exploration today.

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