Project background and objectives
Inspired by the process of terrestrial photosynthesis, the Green SWaP project aims to revolutionize space transportation by harnessing solar energy to produce sustainable propellants onboard spacecraft. By converting water (H₂O) into hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and hydrogen (H₂), Green SWaP is addressing key challenges in in-space mobility. The project focuses on developing two groundbreaking green propulsion systems that will enable missions such as on-orbit servicing, active debris removal, and lunar exploration while significantly increasing spacecraft payload capacity without increasing launch costs. These innovations not only enhance the versatility of spacecraft but also align with the overarching goal of promoting sustainable space activities.
Green SWaP’s technologies are adaptable to diverse in-space scenarios, including collision avoidance, in-orbit manufacturing, and end-of-life management. By focusing on the use of safe, non-toxic propellants and leveraging solar energy, the project is paving the way for environmentally responsible and cost-effective space missions.
Vision and mission
Green SWaP envisions a future where sustainable space exploration and mobility are the norm. By advancing in-space propulsion technologies that are efficient, eco-friendly, and versatile, the project aims to transform how humanity accesses and operates in space. Its mission is to develop innovative solutions that enable new possibilities for space transportation while actively contributing to global goals of sustainability and decarbonization.
Through collaboration and cutting-edge research, Green SWaP seeks to lead the charge in redefining the propulsion systems of tomorrow, ensuring that space exploration evolves responsibly and inclusively.
Impacts
Environmental Sustainability
Green SWaP champions eco-friendly space propulsion by using water-based propellants that reduce environmental harm. The project aligns with Europe’s decarbonization targets and ESA’s CleanSpace initiatives, paving the way for a cleaner and more sustainable orbital environment.
Technological Breakthroughs
Economic Benefits
A Safer Space Frontier
Green SWaP’s technologies actively mitigate space debris risks, reducing collision hazards and enhancing orbital safety through advanced debris management and space traffic control.
Key Innovations
Green SWaP brings a suite of technological breakthroughs that redefine the possibilities of in-space mobility:
- Solar Energy Harvesting Module: Advanced technology that uses solar power to produce propellants, including hydrogen peroxide and hydrogen, from water.
- Propellant Production and Storage: A novel approach integrating photocatalytic and plasma-based processes to convert water into propellants, alongside innovative systems for H₂O₂ concentration and inflatable hydrogen storage tanks.
- Dual-Mode Propulsion Systems: Development of bimodal propulsion systems, combining solar thermal propulsion and chemical propulsion using H₂O₂ and H₂. This combination is a groundbreaking concept that enhances performance, safety, and versatility.
- Sustainability-Centered Design: By focusing on non-toxic, non-carcinogenic propellants and innovative storage methods, the project ensures a greener, safer, and more cost-effective propulsion system suitable for diverse mission scenarios.
- Green SWaP’s cutting-edge technologies position it as a game changer in the pursuit of sustainable and efficient space exploration.
The Green SWaP initiative is driven by a consortium of leading European universities, research institutions, and industry partners. Together, they bring cross-sectoral expertise to innovate, test, and validate green propulsion technologies.
