Next-Generation Chemical Propulsion Systems
ABOUT OUR COMPANY
Protolaunch is a chemical propulsion company changing the way rocket engines are designed to enable future small launch vehicles.
Satellites are getting smaller while the rockets that launch them have not. A new generation of microlauncher vehicle is on the horizon targeting <1000kg payloads. Smaller rockets need smaller engines.
Reducing the size of engines intended for much larger vehicles results in spiralling complexity and cost.
Protolaunch is taking a different approach.
Protolaunch has taken a bottom-up design philosophy to propulsion development, designing specifically for small payloads from the outset. Our technology leverages a new thermodynamic cycle and system-level optimisations. This eliminates the need for complex pumps & turbmachinery, reducing manufacturing complexity and vehicle weight savings.
Positioned as an engine supplier, Protolaunch works with launch partners to bespoke our standard propulsion units for particular customer use cases.
Our propulsion technology presents a number of strategic advantages over turbomachinery or high-pressure blow-down and is a key enabler for a dedicated microlauncher to facilitate a future of dedicated launches for small payloads.
The core technology is protected through UK Patent Application No: GB2102545.7
RELIABLE
Additive manufacturing techniques enable reduced part counts, mass savings and flow geometries not possible through conventional methods. This positions Protolaunch engines for scalable development.
The HILBERT Engine
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SIMPLE
With few moving parts and vastly lower operating pressures, the reduced complexity of Protolaunch propulsion systems allow for a focus on simplicity at the core.
ENVIRONMENTALLY SUSTAINABLE
Our cycle design enables cleaner fuels and reduces the need for highly refined kerosene.