Introducing NEO-1
2025-07-07
NewOrbit Space proudly introduces NEO‑1, the world’s first air‑breathing satellite designed to operate sustainably at ultra‑low orbit (180–250 km) – referred to as Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO). Powered by our groundbreaking AURA thruster, NEO‑1 turns atmospheric drag into propellant, enabling extended missions at altitudes previously inaccessible to conventional satellites.
NEO‑1 isn’t just a satellite—it’s the vanguard of a new era in space. By harnessing the atmosphere itself as fuel, NewOrbit Space is unlocking a richer, more sustainable frontier for satellite operations. It is closer, better, cleaner.
Radically improving Earth Observation, Connectivity & Weather Forecasting use-cases
NEO‑1 marks a paradigm shift in satellite capabilities. Flying at one-third the altitude of traditional low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, it enables payloads to deliver drone-like image resolution, high-speed direct‑to‑device connectivity, and enhanced atmospheric sensing.
AURA: The Heart of NEO-1
At the core of NEO‑1 is our AURA air‑breathing ion engine, a first‑of‑its‑kind propulsion system that ingests atmospheric particles in-sitsu, ionizes them, and accelerates them to generate thrust. Tests in our bespoke laboratory confirmed continuous operation on nitrogen and oxygen, demonstrating a specific impulse up to 8,700 seconds enough to fully compensate for atmospheric drag.
Sustainable, Debris‑Free Design
Flying at 180–250 km means any debris generated will naturally reenter Earth’s atmosphere within weeks — making NEO‑1 and it's orbital regime inherently debris‑free. With an custom design, NEO‑1 is built to sustain operations for up to five years before harmless reentry.