Ion-X

Learn about ION-X, a French aerospace company developing ionic liquid electrospray thrusters for satellite propulsion, orbital maneuvering, and spacecraft operations.

ION-X is a French aerospace technology company developing electric propulsion systems for small satellites using ionic liquid electrospray technology. Its HALO-100X thruster accelerates charged particles through an electric field to generate propulsion without conventional chemical combustion or pressurized propellant storage. The system supports orbital maneuvering, station-keeping, collision avoidance, and spacecraft end-of-life management. ION-X completed an in-orbit firing demonstration in May 2025 and announced deliveries of additional propulsion units for satellite missions in 2026. Its technology builds on nanoscience research involving focused ion sources and electrohydrodynamic propulsion.