The Rubicon Space Systems Sprite Propulsion System is a self-contained plug-and-play designed module for satellite applications.

Rubicon Space Systems began developing the Sprite 1.5U propulsion module under a NASA STTR Phase II. It is designed to operate in single or multiple-module mode. Up to eight modules can operate collectively. Communication with the module is achieved via either the RS-422 protocol (single module application) or the RS-485 protocol (multiple modules only). In multiple module applications, the interface to the spacecraft remains RS-422 protocol.

Sprite fits a 10cm x 10cm x 15cm envelope plus a “tuna can.” The module is outfitted with an externally accessible fuel port allowing fueling after the module is integrated into the spacecraft. It can be fueled prior to integration or afterward, depending on the customer’s requirement.

It uses a single 0.1N ASCENT thruster in blow-down operation. With a mass under 2kg, Sprite delivers more than 1200 Ns of total impulse. Rubicon has leveraged its combined experience from several programs to develop Sprite. The company invested heavily in the development of additive manufacturing (AM) controls to certify the parts and the processes for compliance with NASA-STD-6030 AM Requirements for Spaceflight Systems. The processes and design methodologies will guide the design and manufacturing of AM parts for future propulsion systems as well.

Propellant management features are directly integrated into the propellant tank design. And the manifold has all complex geometries and interfaces integrated into its design. Efforts were taken to optimize machining and assembly processes by placing component interfaces into locations that reduced the number of special operations that must occur. This is a design principle that will be applied to the company's all future propulsion systems as well. Rubicon was recently awarded a NASA SBIR Phase III to complete the qualification of the Sprite propulsion system and deliver a flight unit in Q1 2024, with options for additional units.