As the world charts a new normal and businesses grow ever more reliant on Internet connectivity and services like Earth imagery, the global satellite market is now a $30B sector and growing. Within it, a new sub-sector – the small satellites or cubesats – promises to bring down the huge capital costs of decades-old satellite propulsion systems, displacing fuel-based thrusters with electric alternatives.

Founded by aerospace veterans from Northrop Grumman to NewSpace pioneers like Spire and Planet, Phase Four represents a new breed of electric-based propulsion with its tiny electric engine, Maxwell.

As the number of satellite constellations increase, the propulsion systems that have been in place for the last twenty years are being challenged by power innovations that blow performance and efficiency off the charts. While many of these are still conceptual, Phase Four is designing a mass-produced electric engine for the mega-constellations of small satellites.

In its first few months alone, Phase Four saw a dramatic increase in incoming interest from potential investors and customers. A combined campaign focused on educating the markets on the mechanics of space and gaining credibility for its ability to scale its innovative Maxwell thruster, put the relatively unknown into the ranks of early leaders like Spire and Planet. This swift gain in mindshare led to increases in marketshare as it continues to win commercial contracts for its sustainable space engine.