Jonathan Huffman, founder and CEO of Orbital Arc, discusses the development of ion thrusters and the future of space propulsion. He explains the process of nano fabrication and the difference between normal fabrication and nano fabrication. Huffman shares his inspiration for starting Orbital Arc and the challenges he has faced as a solo founder. He highlights the potential of ion thrusters to enable physical industry in space and discusses the commercialization path for his technology. Huffman also discusses the key trends in the space industry, including space-based private R&D and the development of powerful energy systems.
- Nano fabrication is the process of fabricating structures at the nanometer scale using chemical methods.
- Ion thrusters are the most fuel-efficient way to move in space and are used for in-space propulsion.
- Orbital Arc is developing a new type of ion thruster that uses field effect mass spectrometry to overcome plasma containment limitations.
- The commercialization path for Orbital Arc involves partnering with satellite bus builders and targeting the satellite hardware market.
- The future of space propulsion lies in larger spacecraft, space-based private R&D, and powerful energy systems.
- Investment in powerful energy systems, such as nuclear reactors for space, is crucial for the development of the space economy.
00:00 Introduction and Super Critical Topic: Nano Fab Equipment
02:12 Nano Fabrication and Ion Thrusters
07:15 Fuel Efficiency and Limitations of Existing Ion Thrusters
17:51 Enabling Physical Industry in Space with Ion Thrusters
29:19 Key Trends in the Space Industry
33:06 Investment in Powerful Energy Systems
35:32 Motivation and Conclusion
ion thrusters, nano fabrication, space propulsion, Orbital Arc, physical industry in space, commercialization, space-based R&D, powerful energy systems, technology, supercritical
