Desert Works Propulsion Announces Operational Launch of DW-1, a Rocket Engine Test Facility
New Facility Reduces Testing Costs While Advancing Electric Propulsion Innovations
New Mexico - December 10, 2024 - Desert Works Propulsion, leading provider of electric propulsion (EP) expertise as a service, proudly announces the launch of DW-1, its state-of-the-art vacuum test facility. Located in New Mexico, DW-1 is now fully operational, offering a highly cost-effective testing environment for electric propulsion thruster cathodes and components, supporting both internal development and client projects.
Designed, built, and implemented in-house, the rocket engine test facility represents a significant milestone for Desert Works Propulsion, which completed the project at just a quarter of the cost of purchasing a turnkey system. This achievement underscores the company’s dedication to delivering innovative, cost-efficient solutions that lower the barriers to electric propulsion technology.
Kevin McCormick, Master Technician-Consultant, assembles the DW-1 rocket engine test facility, designed for electric propulsion thruster component development and testing.“DW-1 represents our dedication to breaking barriers in electric propulsion,” said Michael Patterson, Founder and Chairman of Desert Works Propulsion. “Not only does this facility accelerate our own development efforts, but it also offers clients an affordable, high-performance solution to advance their electric propulsion innovations. Looking ahead, we’re positioned to execute the design and assembly of custom vacuum test facilities that deliver unmatched value and cutting-edge capabilities for future partners.”
The DW-1 facility has already demonstrated its capabilities through multiple successful tests. Assembled, and pumped down in November 2024, the facility can transition from atmospheric pressure to x10⁻⁷ Torr in less than 12 minutes and reach x10⁻⁸ Torr in under 2 hours.
While very few startups have their own vacuum test facilities, Desert Works Propulsion leveraged its team’s collective 190 years of industry experience to make it a reality. Drawing on extensive expertise gained from designing and building test facilities for government entities, the team integrated cutting-edge innovations to create a state-of-the-art facility built for both performance and cost efficiency.
State-of-the-Art Capabilities
DW-1 incorporates advanced features designed to deliver top-tier performance:
Pumping Power: Twin roughing pumps and turbo pumps with a pumping speed of approximately 4,200 L/sec N.
Power Console: Equipped with all the power supplies necessary to operate thruster components (heaters, ignitor circuits, and anode power supplies up to 38 amperes).
Data Acquisition: A 20-channel data acquisition and control system ensures precise data monitoring and control.
Propellant Feed System: Dual-line system with 10 and 20 sccm mass flow controllers.
Vacuum Chamber Design: Multiple penetrations for electrical power, diagnostics, and optical access.
To learn more about Desert Works Propulsion’s testing services or to partner in developing new spacecraft electric propulsion innovations, contact Pat Patterson, Head of Business Development: pfpatterson@desertworkspropulsion.com.
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Desert Works Propulsion, LLC
Desert Works Propulsion is a leading innovator in spacecraft electric propulsion, offering unparalleled expertise with over 180 years of combined industry experience. As the first and only provider of electric propulsion expertise as a service, their mission is to democratize this technology beyond government entities. Committed to delivering inventive solutions for complex challenges, Desert Works Propulsion is also at the forefront of industry advancements, driving innovation as soon as development funding is secured.
Learn more at desertworkspropulsion.com.