ECAPS Demonstrates Breakthrough in Rapid Start-Up with 22 N FAST Experimental Thruster
Stockholm, Sweden – May 5, 2025 – ECAPS has successfully completed another hot firing test of its 22 N FAST experimental thruster, achieving full start-up from ambient temperature to steady-state operation in under 48 seconds. This performance marks a significant advancement in the development of propulsion systems designed for rapid response and flexible mission readiness.
The test used ECAPS’s LMP-103S/LT formulation, with the catalyst bed starting at approximately 20°C. It was heated to its operational temperature of 350°C using ECAPS’ proprietary FAST start-up sequence, eliminating the need for prolonged electrical preheating.
Earlier ECAPS systems—such as those used on the PRISMA mission—required up to 30 minutes of electrical heating prior to thruster activation. The FAST architecture now achieves full readiness in well under a minute. Development work is ongoing to reduce this time further, targeting start-up durations as low as 10 seconds for reusable systems.
“This milestone reinforces our focus on pushing the boundaries of propulsion readiness,” said Odysseas Christofi, CEO at ECAPS. “By drastically reducing activation time, we’re enabling new mission profiles across both space and defense sectors that require rapid, on-demand performance.”
Versatile Architecture for Modern Missions
The FAST start-up technology is designed to be adaptable across a range of propulsion system types, including monopropellant, bipropellant, and gas generator configurations—giving mission designers more flexibility in choosing high-performance, fast-response propulsion solutions.
About ECAPS
Founded in 2000, ECAPS is a leader in green propulsion technology. Known for the development of the LMP-103S propellant, ECAPS is advancing next-generation propulsion solutions for space and defense, with a focus on responsiveness, safety, and environmental sustainability. For more information, visit ecaps.se.
For media inquiries, please contact:
info@ecaps.se