Momentus Successfully Raises Orbit Using Innovative Propulsion System for the First Time

Momentus Inc. has successfully achieved the first orbital raise of its Vigoride-5 spacecraft using its pioneering Microwave Electrothermal Thruster (MET) that uses distilled water as propellant. The successful maneuvers raised the altitude of the Vigoride Orbital Service Vehicle (OSV) by more than 3 kilometers, taking into account the atmospheric drag that the spacecraft must overcome each day. Momentus’ transportation service offering aims to deliver customer satellites to precise and custom orbits. The MET is the Vigoride OSV’s primary propulsion method that relies on solar power and uses distilled water as a propellant. It produces thrust by expelling extremely hot gases through a rocket nozzle. The use of non-toxic water propellant ultimately enables simpler, safer, and more cost-efficient operations both on Earth and in space. Momentus has flown three of its Vigoride OSVs in less than a year.