Pale Blue, a University of Tokyo spinoff, is set to demonstrate its water-based ion thruster technology in collaboration with D-Orbit, marking a significant milestone in sustainable space operations.
Pale Blue's latest propulsion system, the Pale Blue 1U+ Water Ion Thruster, is designed to help small satellites navigate through space by allowing them to maneuver, avoid space debris, and de-orbit when missions conclude. The thruster, slightly larger than a 10-centimeter cube, uses water-based propellants to power satellite movement, providing a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional propulsion systems.
“By partnering with D-Orbit, we are taking a significant step forward in validating the performance and reliability of our propulsion technology,” said Jun Asakawa, co-founder and CEO of Pale Blue. “This collaboration will enable us to meet the growing demand, while contributing to space sustainability.”
The new propulsion system, which leverages water as a propellant, promises advantages such as safety, availability, and ease of handling, assuming it performs as expected in orbit. Pale Blue is aiming to demonstrate the performance of its water-based thruster during two flights on D-Orbit's ION Satellite Carrier in June and October 2025.
Pale Blue's journey into space propulsion technology began with the successful deployment of its Resistojet thruster in 2023. The company has since raised $16 million in a Series B funding round and secured a $27 million contract from Japan's Small Business Innovation Research program to further develop its water-based ion and Hall-effect thrusters.
“We are confident that our water-based propulsion system will redefine the future of satellite missions and open up new possibilities for space exploration,” Asakawa remarked.
D-Orbit, a leading player in satellite deployment and hosting services, has supported 105 satellites and hosted 48 payloads across 14 ION missions since 2020. The company has now entered a partnership with Pale Blue, marking its first collaboration with a Japanese firm.
“Water-based propulsion technology perfectly aligns with D-Orbit's commitment to sustainable space operations,” said Renato Panesi, D-Orbit co-founder and chief commercial officer. “Drawing on our extensive experience in successful in-orbit demonstrations and the proven versatility of ION Satellite Carrier, we are happy to support Pale Blue in advancing their innovative propulsion solution.
The partnership also expands D-Orbit's presence in the Asia-Pacific region. As part of a wider strategic push, D-Orbit secured exclusive distribution rights for its services in Japan and Southeast Asia through Marubeni Corp., a key partner in the company's Series C funding round.
Ash Takao, D-Orbit's sales development manager and member of Marubeni, noted that the new contract with Pale Blue “highlights our commitment to strengthening ties within Japan's advanced space sector and expanding D-Orbit's reach in the Asia-Pacific region.
With growing interest in sustainable space technologies, Pale Blue's water-based propulsion system is expected to play a key role in the future of satellite missions, offering a safer and more sustainable alternative to conventional propulsion methods.