ExoTerra Wins NASA Phase I SBIR Award
Sep 6, 2022
1 min read
Updated: Sep 7, 2022
ExoTerra has been awarded a NASA Phase I SBIR to develop a solar electric propulsion upper stage for small launch vehicles. ExoTerra is partnered with Virgin Orbit and Advanced Space to advance the design of an upper stage capable of delivering up to 150 kg to Lunar orbit from an LEO launch by LauncherOne. The project has the potential to open Cis-Lunar space to microsatellites and micro-landers delivered to orbit by affordable small launch vehicles.
I find the idea of using solar electric propulsion for small launch vehicles genuinely fascinating. The partnership between ExoTerra, Virgin Orbit, and Advanced Space shows how solar power can support ambitious missions far beyond Earth, including lunar orbit delivery. It also makes me think about how improvements in solar technology on the ground can contribute to space applications. When I look at modern pv solar panels, I notice how much attention is going toward efficiency, power density, and practical system design—qualities that matter in spacecraft too. Exploring different solar panels and equipment gives me a better appreciation of how quickly this technology is evolving for both terrestrial and space-based energy needs.