Benchmark Space Systems, the leading developer and integrator of in-space mobility solutions, announced it has won a critical two-year, $4.9 million Air Force Research Lab (AFRL) award to further develop its non-catalytic 22 Newton-to-100 Newton class propulsion systems to power government missions using high-performance ASCENT monopropellant.

ASCENT (Advanced Spacecraft Energetic Non-Toxic) is a next-generation spacecraft monopropellant, developed by AFRL, that can outperform hydrazine across a wide range of space mission scenarios. In addition to increased impulse density relative to state-of-the-art monopropellants of approximately 50%, the long-term storability and transportability of ASCENT monopropellant offers significantly reduced hazard and handling complexity. Benchmark is leading new ASCENT propulsion system advancements and capabilities that are driving ASCENT propulsion system technology to full mission readiness. 

This marks Benchmark’s second follow-on AFRL SPRINT (Space Propulsion Research and Innovation for Neutralizing Satellite Threats) award to help solve the elusive challenges, such as scalability and operational lifetime, that have been ongoing technical challenges for ASCENT propulsion technology product line proliferation.

As part of the latest AFRL award modification, Benchmark will continue development of its ASCENT 22 Newton Macaw propulsion system, which is expected to be ready for integration by the conclusion of the latest SPRINT testing program in 2026. Benchmark will also deliver preliminary designs for a larger 100 Newton thruster assembly this year, then build and test prototypes tailored to meet demand for scaled ASCENT propulsion systems for spacecraft that can deliver thrust in the 10-500 Newton range.

Benchmark is also developing all the necessary systems to support ASCENT based missions, including the delivery of a ground support equipment (GSE) solution, initially funded by a separate USAF SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research) project grant, to accelerate ASCENT adoption with safe and reliable pre-launch and on-orbit spacecraft propellant loading capabilities.

“Benchmark Space Systems is thrilled to receive our second AFRL SPRINT follow-on award, as a strong vote of confidence in our ability to successfully crack the elusive ASCENT propellant code for scaled up government and military missions in space,” said Michael Martin, Director of Benchmark’s Advanced Propellants Group. “Benchmark’s approach to making ASCENT a viable and reliable alternative to hydrazine is centered around the elimination of expensive catalyst beds to reduce thruster costs and accelerate the scalability and commercial adoption of ASCENT for future spacecraft in the 10-500 Newton thrust range.”

“Benchmark is making important new discoveries about ASCENT propellant as our teams prepare to unlock the full potential of an entirely new non-toxic, high-performance fuel for scalable government missions in space,” explained Kevin DiMarzio, Director of Business Development for Benchmark Space Systems. “Benchmark’s Macaw thruster is well on its way to making ASCENT a viable go-to propellant within the next two years, as we collaborate closely with AFRL and other key government organizations and bring Benchmark’s innovative end-to-end design approach to the table to solve the ASCENT challenge.”

Benchmark’s ASCENT-specific Macaw 22 Newton thrusters can serve ESPA class satellites and orbital transfer vehicles as main thrusters, attitude control thrusters, or reentry thrusters depending on the size of the satellite at the 22 Newton scale. Benchmark’s 100 Newton class thrusters will enable orbital transfers and orbital maneuvering among medium to large satellites. A mix of thruster sizes can be configured to support a host of different applications and mobility requirements in space.   

Benchmark’s collaborative work with the AFRL and the U.S. Government is a model example of how the company develops high-performance propulsion systems leveraging novel propellants with impressive operational and logistical benefits.

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