Optimum Technologies Chosen by Zeno Power to Develop Radioisotope-Powered Satellite for U.S. Military
Sterling, VA, August 31, 2023— Optimum Technologies, LLC (OpTech) is proud to announce its selection by Zeno Power Systems to support the mission design and integration of a cutting-edge radioisotope power system (RPS) into a low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite for the U.S. Air Force. The $30 million project, awarded to Zeno Power Systems, aims to deliver the innovative satellite by 2025.
Zeno Power Systems, a startup founded in 2018, specializes in developing radioisotope power systems that leverage nuclear energy technology to convert the heat from decaying nuclear materials into electricity directly. Zeno can offer small and more cost-effective solution power systems compared to legacy RPS designs through their innovative and patented fuel design approach. By harnessing the advantages of the RPS technology, the U.S. military seeks to deploy satellites with extended maneuverability capabilities and eliminate concerns about fuel depletion.
OpTech's role in this partnership will involve architecting the satellite configuration to effectively manage the thermal, electrical, propulsion, and power subsystems, ensuring the successful demonstration mission in LEO that aligns with the goals and objectives of the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) and the broader U.S. government.
Lt. Col. Thomas Nix, U.S. Space Force project manager at AFRL, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, "The incorporation of this advanced technology will enable constant maneuverability between different orbits, unlocking new capabilities for the Department of Defense."
Zeno's RPS system uses a design that includes a 90-strontium, a radioisotope available in quantities to support government and commercial missions through to the 2030s. This unique approach, coupled with OpTech's expertise, will help pave the way for regulatory approval and the satellite's successful launch in 2025.
By leveraging its Space Enterprise Consortium (SpEC) registration and Small Business Association (SBA) membership, OpTech is well-positioned to provide its multi-disciplinary aerospace engineering and program management services to support the development of the RPS-powered satellite. OpTech's team of subject matter experts is dedicated to architecting and developing spacecraft, payload structures, and missions that cater to the needs of both commercial and government sectors.
"We are honored to be chosen by Zeno Power Systems for this groundbreaking project," said John Hildebrand, Co-Founder of Optimum Technologies. "This collaboration represents a significant milestone in our mission to deliver cutting-edge solutions that advance the capabilities of space technology." (John Hildebrand and Jeffrey Gick founded Optimum Technologies in 2015)
For more information about Optimum Technologies, LLC, please visit www.optechspace.com.
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Note: The information provided in this press release is based on the SpaceNews article, "Zeno Power Systems gets $30 million to build radioisotope-powered satellite for U.S. military" available at Zeno Power gets $30 million to build radioisotope-powered satellite for U.S. military - SpaceNews.