Satellites and subsystems > Orbit determination and control > Satellite and CubeSat thrusters > PBR-10 (Water Resistojet Thruster)
Key highlights
The PBR-10 (Water Resistojet Thruster) is a compact 0.5U propulsion system, the smallest in its class on the market, that generates thrust using water vapor. Designed for 3U–6U CubeSats, it is a fully integrated solution incorporating the thruster head, fluidics, electronics, and propellant tank within a single unit. Its clusterable architecture also enables compatibility with a wide range of spacecraft sizes and mission requirements.
The PBR-10 uses water as propellant, eliminating the need for high-pressure storage systems. The propellant is preloaded into the tank prior to factory delivery, allowing satellite integrators to avoid complex fueling procedures during spacecraft integration.
The propulsion system first demonstrated successful operation in low Earth orbit aboard Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency’s EQUULEUS mission in 2022, validating the technology in spaceflight conditions.
A white paper for the PBR-10 is also available. Please fill out the contact form below to request a copy.
Applications
- Orbit insertion
- Orbit maintenance
- De-orbit
- Collision avoidance
- Formation flying
Key features
- Quick start-up time
- No fueling work needed
- Simple commands
- Ready to use
- Ease of handling
- Quick, stable delivery
Manufacturing
PBR-10 is manufacrured in Japan.
Customers
- Sony Group: Pale Blue offers a very compact system that can fit their 6U cubesat using - water - the ultimate green propellant, while achieving high thrust enough for orbit insertion and station keeping.
- Yonsei University: Pale Blue offers flight-proven compact systems to conduct formation flying, which requires precise control. Using water as a propellant gives a considerable advantage because of its easy handling.
- Others undisclosed
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Last updated: 2026-05-22
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