A New Zealand space technology company has successfully demonstrated a pioneering satellite control system in orbit, marking a significant step forward for the country’s growing aerospace sector. Auckland-based Zenno Astronautics says its superconducting magnet technology could eventually allow spacecraft to manoeuvre in space without relying on conventional fuel.
First Orbital Test of Superconducting Satellite Thruster
Zenno Astronautics, a spin-out from the University of Auckland, has completed the first in-orbit test of its “Supertorquer” system aboard the Mira satellite, developed by California start-up Impulse Space.
The technology was launched in November last year as part of the SpaceX Transporter-12 mission. According to the company, the shoebox-sized device successfully performed a series of tests designed to demonstrate its ability to control a satellite’s orientation in space.
Chief executive and founder Max Arshavsky said the system uses superconducting magnets to interact with Earth’s magnetic field, enabling precise spacecraft positioning without the need for traditional propellant.
“It’s a technology that allows a spacecraft to not tumble violently in space and point in the right direction,” Arshavsky said.
How the Supertorquer Works
The system contains multiple superconducting magnets arranged along different axes. When activated, the magnets generate a controlled magnetic field that interacts with Earth’s natural magnetic field.
By adjusting the magnetic forces produced by the satellite, operators can control how the spacecraft rotates and maintains its orientation relative to Earth.
This capability is essential for satellites, which must remain accurately pointed to perform tasks such as communications, navigation and Earth observation.
The Science Behind Superconducting Magnets
Superconducting magnets are built using specialised wire that can carry electrical current with virtually no resistance. This allows significantly larger currents to flow than in conventional wiring, creating much stronger magnetic fields.
The challenge is that superconducting materials only function at extremely low temperatures.
On Earth, laboratories typically use cryogenic liquids such as liquid helium or liquid nitrogen to achieve those conditions. In space, however, carrying large quantities of such cooling materials is impractical.
Instead, Zenno’s system relies on advanced insulation and thermal management technology.
“The magnets need to operate at minus 200 degrees Celsius,” Arshavsky said.
Although outer space is often associated with extreme cold, satellites exposed to sunlight can remain relatively warm.
“But even though space is cold, the satellite is actually not. It’s about 20 degrees C, pretty warm, because we are pointing at the sun,” he said.
Turning Solar Power Directly into Motion
The superconducting magnet unit is enclosed within multiple layers of insulation and equipped with a heat pump that removes excess heat.
Whenever the spacecraft requires manoeuvring, electricity stored in onboard batteries — charged by solar panels — powers the superconducting coils.
According to Arshavsky, the system effectively converts solar energy directly into useful motion.
“It’s converting solar energy straight into useful work,” he said.
“Energy is the one thing that is abundant in space, and you can use it to energise the magnet to create a magnetic acceleration device. It gives you acceleration without fuel.”
Potential Applications for Future Space Missions
Zenno Astronautics believes larger versions of the technology could eventually support a wide range of space operations.
Future spacecraft could use superconducting magnetic systems to perform docking manoeuvres, conduct close-proximity missions and alter orbital trajectories without consuming fuel.
Arshavsky said the long-term potential extends beyond Earth orbit, with applications for future missions to the Moon and Mars.
“Once you have superconducting technology available in space, you can then create very strong magnetic fields and you can use them for various use cases,” he said.
“You can accelerate things in space very fast or change the trajectory of a satellite completely without fuel.”
The company’s broader vision is to reduce dependence on Earth-supplied resources and help establish a more sustainable space economy.
“We are essentially looking to remove all reliance on Earth’s resources so that we can build a sustainable industry in space,” Arshavsky said.
Radiation Protection Could Benefit Future Astronauts
Beyond propulsion and satellite control, superconducting magnets may also help address one of the biggest challenges facing long-duration space travel: exposure to cosmic radiation.
Radiation levels beyond Earth’s protective atmosphere can increase health risks for astronauts, particularly during missions to the Moon, Mars and other deep-space destinations.
According to Arshavsky, powerful magnetic fields could potentially create protective shields around spacecraft.
“When we go to space, we get hurt by radiation, and these superconducting magnets can create umbrellas of magnetic fields around the spacecraft to protect the interior,” he said.
“So we can shield people in space from that radiation.”
Next Steps for Zenno Astronautics
Following the successful orbital demonstration, Zenno Astronautics plans to launch a larger version of the technology on another mission later this year.
While details of the upcoming flight have not yet been disclosed, the company views the milestone as an important step toward developing practical fuel-free spacecraft systems.
As New Zealand’s space sector continues to expand, the achievement highlights the role local innovation could play in shaping the future of sustainable space exploration and satellite operations.
Alexander Donovan writes for News Collective, covering news, politics, business, technology, sport, entertainment, and lifestyle. He focuses on clear, reliable reporting and useful information, helping readers stay informed about current events, emerging trends, and stories that matter.