Ex-SpaceX engineer plans to fly satellite using water-powered propulsion system

undefined 11, 2026

Source: interestingengineering

Space startup **General Galactic** plans to fly a 1,100-pound satellite using **water as in-orbit propellant** to test chemical and electric propulsion. The Trinity mission, set for a SpaceX Falcon 9 launch in October, will split water into hydrogen and oxygen for chemical thrust and create plasma for electric thrust. Water offers safer, easier handling than traditional fuels. Success could enable low-cost satellite maneuvering and lay groundwork for Mars refueling infrastructure.

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