MIT’s hybrid thruster gives briefcase-sized satellites greater orbital agility

MIT engineers built a hybrid thruster for CubeSats that can switch between chemical and electric propulsion using a single propellant supply.

The design aims to combine fast, high-thrust orbital changes with efficient fine adjustments and station-keeping.

The prototype is now in ground testing, with the goal of making small satellites more agile and capable in low Earth orbit.

If successful, the compact dual-mode system could reduce the need for separate propulsion units on small satellites.