A new electric propulsion testing facility has launched at Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, strengthening the UK’s capabilities in satellite technology and space innovation.
The Disruptive Experimental Electric Propulsion (DEEP) Lab, developed by space technology company Magdrive, will provide specialist testing facilities for the engines that power next generation satellites. Electric propulsion systems allow satellites to manoeuvre, maintain orbit and travel further into space while using significantly less fuel than traditional chemical rockets.
Based at Harwell’s BEP0 development, the laboratory will be open to start ups, established aerospace firms and academic researchers across the UK space sector. While Magdrive will be the largest user of the facility, the lab has been designed to support collaboration and innovation across the wider space community.
Supporting the future of satellite technology
Electric propulsion is becoming increasingly important for satellite operations as the global space economy continues to expand. The DEEP Lab provides a range of capabilities to support the development and testing of new propulsion technologies.
These include cleanroom assembly areas, a mechanical prototyping workshop and advanced plasma diagnostic testing chambers. At the centre of the facility is a two metre diameter vacuum chamber designed to enable comprehensive thruster testing and validation.
Magdrive has also introduced plasma diagnostics techniques commonly used in the fusion sector, allowing researchers to monitor plasma behaviour from multiple angles and accelerate development cycles.
Liz Lloyd, Minister for Space, said:
“From ambitious start ups to established aerospace firms, this facility will give British companies access to testing capabilities that were previously out of reach. Electric propulsion is shaping the future of how we operate in space, and by investing in infrastructure like this we are ensuring that UK innovators can lead the way.
By opening its doors to the wider space community, the DEEP Lab will accelerate the pace of discovery and help cement the UK’s reputation as a global leader in space technology.”
Strengthening the Harwell space cluster
Founded in 2020, Magdrive has raised more than £10 million in funding, including support from the UK Space Agency and the European Space Agency. The company develops next generation spacecraft propulsion systems from its Oxfordshire base.
Located at Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Magdrive sits within one of Europe’s leading space clusters, home to more than 100 organisations working across space science, satellite applications and advanced technologies.
The opening of the DEEP Lab represents a significant addition to the UK’s space infrastructure, helping domestic companies develop the propulsion technologies that will power future satellite missions.
