ASCENT (Advanced Spacecraft Energetic Non-Toxic), developed by AFRL, is a next-generation spacecraft monopropellant that surpasses hydrazine in various mission scenarios. It offers a substantial 50% increase in impulse density over traditional monopropellants, along with enhanced storability and ease of transport, significantly reducing handling hazards and complexity. Benchmark Space Systems is at the forefront of developing ASCENT propulsion systems, driving these technologies towards full mission readiness.

This latest contract represents Benchmark's second follow-on award under the AFRL's Space Propulsion Research and Innovation for Neutralizing Satellite Threats (SPRINT) program. The award supports efforts to address the scalability and operational lifetime challenges that have impeded the widespread adoption of ASCENT propulsion technology.

Under this contract, Benchmark will continue developing its ASCENT 22 Newton Macaw propulsion system, expected to be ready for integration by the conclusion of the SPRINT testing program in 2026. The company will also deliver preliminary designs for a 100 Newton thruster assembly within the year, followed by prototype development and testing. These prototypes will meet the growing demand for ASCENT propulsion systems capable of delivering thrust in the 10-500 Newton range.

Benchmark is also advancing ground support equipment (GSE) solutions to facilitate ASCENT-based missions. This includes a system funded by a separate USAF SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research) project grant, designed to ensure safe and reliable pre-launch and on-orbit spacecraft propellant loading, thereby accelerating ASCENT's adoption.

"Benchmark Space Systems is thrilled to receive our second AFRL SPRINT follow-on award, as a strong vote of confidence in our ability to successfully crack the elusive ASCENT propellant code for scaled up government and military missions in space," said Michael Martin, Director of Benchmark's Advanced Propellants Group. "Benchmark's approach to making ASCENT a viable and reliable alternative to hydrazine is centered around the elimination of expensive catalyst beds to reduce thruster costs and accelerate the scalability and commercial adoption of ASCENT for future spacecraft in the 10-500 Newton thrust range."

"Benchmark is making important new discoveries about ASCENT propellant as our teams prepare to unlock the full potential of an entirely new non-toxic, high-performance fuel for scalable government missions in space," explained Kevin DiMarzio, Director of Business Development for Benchmark Space Systems. "Benchmark's Macaw thruster is well on its way to making ASCENT a viable go-to propellant within the next two years, as we collaborate closely with AFRL and other key government organizations and bring Benchmark's innovative end-to-end design approach to the table to solve the ASCENT challenge."

Benchmark's ASCENT-specific Macaw 22 Newton thrusters are versatile and can serve as main thrusters, attitude control thrusters, or reentry thrusters for ESPA class satellites and orbital transfer vehicles, depending on satellite size. The 100 Newton class thrusters will enable orbital transfers and maneuvering for medium to large satellites. Various thruster sizes can be configured to meet diverse mobility requirements in space.

Benchmark's ongoing collaboration with AFRL and the U.S. Government exemplifies its commitment to developing high-performance propulsion systems using novel propellants that offer significant operational and logistical advantages.

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