Arkadia Space takes off to space with D-Orbit

Arkadia Space announces its collaboration with D-Orbit, a recognized leader in space transportation and logistics solutions, for the validation of its first product in orbit. This will be the first time Arkadia launches its propulsion module into space, making it the first company in Spain to place a chemical propulsion system in orbit.

The propulsion module from Arkadia, which consists of a fuel tank (hydrogen peroxide), electronic systems, and two 5N monopropellant thrusters, has been designed, tested, and qualified solely by Arkadia’s team. To date, the module has successfully passed all the necessary tests to fly aboard D-Orbit. The inaugural flight is scheduled no sooner than March 2025 aboard the Transporter 13 mission. Vandenberg SFB, California, USA

This propulsion system will become the first Spanish chemical propulsion system to fly in orbit, solidifying Arkadia Space as a pioneer in orbital propulsion for satellites and space vehicles. The primary objective of this mission is to validate in orbit the performance and operation of the 5N thrusters. Furthermore, it will serve to demonstrate the possibility of long-term storage of hydrogen peroxide, the green, safe, and efficient fuel that Arkadia is betting on as the real alternative to fuels traditionally used since the 1960s, such as hydrazine and its derivatives.

“It is a source of pride for us to make history in the Spanish space sector and contribute to its growth. What the Arkadia Space team has achieved in such a short time is admirable, and we are now just one step away from demonstrating in orbit the capabilities of this first product, this team and this company. We expect to gain a lot of trust from customers after this flight and convince them how fast we can develop and deliver reliable propulsion systems”

Francho García, Co-founder & CEO at Arkadia Space

D-orbit: A strategic and reliable partner

D-Orbit has been selected as a strategic collaboration for this mission due to its extensive experience and reliability in space missions. With a proven track record of successful launches, the cooperation with D-Orbit ensures maximum assurance and safety for the inaugural flight of Arkadia’s propulsion system. Aboard the ION platform, Arkadia Space will conduct its IoD/IOV flight, aiming to meet all its objectives. Furthermore, this mission not only strengthens the relationship between both companies but also opens the door to future collaborations on new missions, positioning Arkadia as a provider of high-quality propulsion solutions within industry

“We are very happy to collaborate with Arkadia on this mission. It has been a true pleasure working together and we look forward to testing their innovative technology in space.”

Matteo Zeni, Sales Specialist, D-orbit

Looking to the future

This inaugural flight represents just the beginning for Arkadia Space. The company is already in discussions with potential clients and is presenting proposals for future missions. With the experience gained during this validation process and the results from the orbital operation, Arkadia is confident in securing several commercial contracts based on this monopropellant propulsion system in 2025.

In parallel, Arkadia continues to actively work in several projects with the European Space Agency (ESA), which will be announced soon. These projects involve the development of new propulsion products to meet the diverse needs that the space sector will demand in the coming years.