MANA

The project brings together Kreios Space, Lupeon and Promega to develop critical components for atmospheric-breathing electric propulsion systems through advanced manufacturing technologies.

Kreios Space coordinates the MANA project

Kreios Space coordinates MANA (Manufactura Avanzada para la Nueva Astronáutica), a collaborative R&D project focused on developing advanced manufacturing capabilities for critical components of atmospheric-breathing electric propulsion (ABEP) systems.

The initiative brings together three Galician companies Kreios Space, Lupeon and Promega, combining expertise in space propulsion, additive manufacturing and ultra-precision machining to address some of the most demanding challenges in next-generation space systems.

‍

Unlocking the potential of Very Low Earth Orbit

Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) is emerging as one of the most promising environments for future satellite missions. Operating at significantly lower altitudes than traditional satellites offers advantages such as higher-resolution Earth observation, lower communication latency and improved responsiveness for real-time applications.

However, satellites operating in VLEO face a major challenge: atmospheric drag.

Kreios Space is addressing this challenge through the development of Air-Breathing Electric Propulsion (ABEP), a revolutionary propulsion concept that uses residual atmospheric particles as propellant instead of relying on conventional onboard fuel. By harvesting the surrounding atmosphere, ABEP has the potential to enable longer missions, improved efficiency and more sustainable satellite operations.

‍

Advanced manufacturing for critical space components

The MANA project focuses on the development and validation of key ABEP subsystems that require extremely demanding manufacturing standards.

Among the main objectives of the project are:

• Development of an advanced air injection system for atmospheric particle collection and management.
• Design and optimisation of high-precision ion acceleration grids.
• Application of metal additive manufacturing technologies to produce complex propulsion components.
• Development of ultra-precision 5-axis CNC manufacturing processes capable of achieving micrometric tolerances required for space applications.

These technologies will enable the production of highly specialised components while increasing traceability, quality control and manufacturing efficiency through Industry 4.0 processes.

‍

Strengthening Galicia’s position in the European space sector

Beyond its technological goals, MANA represents an important opportunity to strengthen Galicia’s industrial capabilities in advanced manufacturing and aerospace technologies.

The collaboration between Kreios Space, Lupeon and Promega aims to create new expertise in the production of high-value space components, helping position regional companies within European and international aerospace supply chains.

Supported by the NEXOS programme of the Galician Innovation Agency (GAIN) and co-financed by the European Union through the Galicia FEDER 2021–2027 Programme, MANA also contributes to strengthening Galicia’s position within the European aerospace ecosystem and accelerating the development of key technologies for future VLEO missions.

The project will also contribute to the maturation of ABEP technology ahead of future in-orbit demonstrations and commercial deployment opportunities.

‍