Next-Generation Chemical Propulsion Systems

ABOUT OUR COMPANY

Protolaunch are developing reliable chemical propulsion systems to enable a future of dedicated launch for small payloads.

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Satellites are getting smaller while the rockets that launch them have not.  These SmallSat constellations are fuelling the need for smaller rockets with smaller engines. Reducing the size of engines intended for much larger vehicles commonly 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. Based on work conducted at the University of Cambridge, Protolaunch technology leverages a new thermodynamic cycle and system-level optimisations to eliminate the need for complex pumps & turbmachinery and reduce manufacturing complexity.

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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.  

RELIABLE

Additive manufacturing techniques enable reduced part counts, mass savings and flow geometries not possible through conventional methods, positioning Protolaunch engines for scalable development.

The HILBERT Engine

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 the use of renewable biofuels and eliminates the need for highly refined kerosene.