Satellites and subsystems > Orbit determination and control > Satellite and CubeSat thrusters > TunaTank Thruster
Key highlights
The SteamJet TunaTank Thruster is a safe, high-performance, electrothermal propulsion system specifically engineered to support demanding CubeSat missions. Developed by SteamJet Space Systems as part of a new generation of sustainable space technologies, this water-powered module is designed to integrate seamlessly into the "tunacan" volume of standard CubeSat deployers, taking just 1U of the internal CubeSat space. By utilising this specific external volume, the thruster resides partially outside the main satellite structure, which allows operators to add propulsive capabilities while still using maximum space for critical payloads.
The system is a fully integrated solution, encompassing a thruster head, propellant tank, heat exchanger, and control electronics within a compact, flight-ready package. It operates using low-pressure water as its primary green propellant, eliminating the safety risks and logistical complexities often associated with high-pressure or toxic fuels. This design philosophy ensures the system is ITAR-free and easy to handle throughout the integration and launch preparation process.
As part of a mission to foster a more responsible and sustainable use of space, the thruster provides a clean yet powerful alternative to traditional propulsion systems. It is qualified according to rigorous ESA ECSS-E-ST-10-03C and NASA GSFC-STD-7000A standards, ensuring reliability for varied orbital manoeuvres. The architecture also ensures there is no RF interference with other onboard subsystems, making it a highly compatible choice for complex 3U platforms and larger.
Applications
- Collision Avoidance
- De-Orbiting
- Life Extension
- Constellation Management
- Orbit Phasing
- Stationkeeping
- Critical Orbit Correction
- Orbit insertion
- Formation flying
Key features
- External “tuna can” Volume Integration: Installed partially outside the main satellite structure within ⌀ 80 mm deployer
- Total Impulse maximisation by utilising an internal tank
- Tank size and shape can be tailored to fit available internal satellite volume and specific delta-V budgets
- High Thrust-to-Power Architecture: Delivers significantly higher thrust compared to typical electric propulsion while maintaining low power requirements
- Freezing resistance: Supports water-alcohol mixtures for operation down to -30 °C
- ITAR-Free Hardware: Simplified international procurement with no trade or import hurdles
- No RF Interference: Designed for electromagnetic compatibility to ensure no disruption to sensitive onboard satellite communications
- Fully Integrated Module: Includes thruster head, propellant tank, heat exchanger, and control electronics
- Optimised for rapid mission deployment
- Plug-and-play compatibility with CubeSat platforms
- Green Propellant: Uses only safe, non-toxic water
- Low-Pressure Storage: Eliminates risks associated with high-pressure tanks or explosive fuels
- Safe Handling: Simplifies satellite integration and launch preparation logistics
- The fuel tank has successfully passed stringent pressure testing in compliance with NASA requirements
Customization
The SteamJet TunaTank Thruster leverages flight-proven 3D printing technology to tailor the propulsion system's design to unique mission requirements. The size and shape of the water tanks are customizable to ensure seamless integration within the satellite's internal volume and to accommodate specific ΔV budgets. A water-alcohol mixture can be utilized to lower the propellant freezing point to -30 °C for missions in extreme thermal environments. Please contact the manufacturer directly to discuss specific budgetary and timing requirements.
Flight heritage
Developed on flight-proven technology.
Manufacturing
The SteamJet TunaTank Thruster is manufactured using flight-proven 3D printing technology, which allows for the easy customisation of the system's design to match specific mission requirements. Production features the integration of our innovative, patented heat exchanger design, optimised for superior thermal performance. Quality and reliability are ensured by meeting ESA and NASA space qualification standards.
Testing & qualification
The SteamJet TunaTank Thruster is a propulsion system that meets rigorous international engineering and safety standards for orbital missions. It is qualified according to the ESA ECSS-E-ST-10-03C standard and the NASA GSFC-STD-7000A standard, ensuring its reliability and structural integrity during launch and space operations.
Qualified for SpaceX, Soyuz, and SLS rideshare.
Export control
The SteamJet TunaTank Thruster has ITAR-free status, allowing for straightforward shipping and handling worldwide.
Customers
The TunaTank Thruster is new on the market.
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Last updated: 2026-02-26
Technical specs
RS422
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