Advanced Ion Thruster Technology

Starting as a high school student research initiative, i-one-x has evolved into a formidable commercial capability. We are bridging the gap between scientific ambition and market-ready propulsion, making high-power ion thrusters available for the next generation of deep space missions.

System Overview Contact Our Team

About i-one-x

What began as a groundbreaking high school student research project has evolved into a visionary enterprise. i-one-x represents the next generation of aerospace innovation, proving that ambitious engineering knows no age. Still fueled by the passion and leadership of its student founder, we are driven by a dual mission.

We aim to advance the frontiers of ion propulsion research while simultaneously working to make large-scale, high-power ion thrusters commercially accessible. We bridge the gap between academic inquiry and industry-ready hardware.

Our commitment to rigorous testing and development ensures that our technology meets the demands of deep space missions and satellite constellation management, democratizing access to advanced propulsion.

System Overview

Discharge Chamber

The plasma generation subsystem where Xenon propellant is ionized to create positive ions. Includes hollow cathode, anode, propellant injectors, and magnetic confinement for optimal ionization efficiency.

Accelerator Grids

Multi-grid system that electrostatically accelerates ions to create thrust. The screen grid shapes ion trajectories while protecting the accelerator grid from direct plasma contact.

Control Systems

Includes the Power Processing Unit (PPU), Thruster Control Electronics (TCE), and neutralizer cathode for beam neutralization. Ensures stable operation and fault protection.

System Requirements

Functional Requirements

Produce positive thrust along nominal axis when commanded
Survive operational environment without functional degradation
Ionize supplied propellant to form plasma during all operational stages
Maintain continuous beam neutralization
Operate at any commanded thrust level within throttle range
Maintain stable discharge conditions without collapse or runaway currents
Execute autonomous safe startup and shutdown sequences

Environmental Requirements

Withstand launch vibration environments (≥600Hz structural frequency)
Operate in high-vacuum conditions (≤1×10⁻⁵ Torr)
Survive temperature range of -93°C to +138°C
Minimum 4-year operational lifetime in space
Capable of 5 years ground storage
30 hours failure-free burn-in operation

Key Performance Parameters

Parameter	Target Value
Specific Impulse (Isp)	3350 s
Thrust (T)	75 mN
Input Power (Pin)	2000 W
Overall Efficiency (η)	0.60
Maximum Thruster Mass	≤ 10 kg
Lifetime (Firing Time)	> 8000 hours