Key highlights

The Dawn Aerospace CubeDrive propulsion Modules are turn-key propulsion modules designed for CubeSats. It is available in 0.8U, 2U, and 4U forms.

It utilizes nitrous oxide (N2O) and propylene (C3H6). These green propellants are widely available with low costs and lead times from domestic suppliers.

The system also includes thrusters, tanks, tubing, health monitoring, control electronics, and structures. It consists of one B1 thruster and has the capability to deliver multiple avoidance maneuvers for large satellites.

Key features

  • Status
    0.8U - In space
    2U - In development
    4U - In development
  • Thruster
    0.8U and 2U- One B1 thruster
    4U - Four B1 thrusters
  • Propellants
    Nitrous oxide (N2O) and
    Propylene (C3H6)
  • Tank type
    Type 1: All metallic, 3D printed

Flight heritage

Dawn Aerospace propulsion systems have flown on all SpaceX Transporter missions to date, Starlink rideshare, and Arianespace’s Vega rideshare.

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Last updated: 2024-09-02

CubeDrive Propulsion Modules

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Technical specs

dry mass
0.8U - 2.14 lbm, 970 g
2U - 4.52 lbm, 2050 g
4U - 5.5 lbm, 2500 g
wet mass
0.8U - 2.58 lbm, 1170 g
2U - 5.95 lbm, 2700 g
4U - 8.8 lbm, 4000 g
length
0.8U - 3.15 in, 80 mm
2U/4U - 7.87 in, 200 mm
width
0.8U/2U - 3.78 in, 96 mm
4U - 7.87 in and 200 mm
height
0.8U/2U - 3.78 in, 96 mm
4U - 3.94 in, 100 mm
total impulse
0.8U - 95.5 lbf.s, 425 N.s
2U - 325 lbf.s, 1450 N.s
4U - 787 lbf.s, 3500 N.s
data interface
CAN
RS485
RS422
voltage
Digital: 5 to 5.2 VDC
Actuators: 12 VDC or 28 VDC unregulated
operating temperature
23°F to 86°F (-5°C to 30°C)
survival temperature
-22°F to 104°F (-30°C to 40°C)

Export

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