Rubicon Space Systems develops propulsion technologies that enable spacecraft mobility.
Originally established to commercialize advanced propulsion technologies developed within Plasma Processes, Rubicon focuses on delivering high-performance spacecraft propulsion systems powered by ASCENT (AF-M315E) monopropellant. Our products help spacecraft maneuver, reposition, avoid collisions, maintain formations, and safely deorbit at end of mission.
With decades of combined propulsion experience and thousands of hours of hot-fire testing, Rubicon has become a recognized leader in ASCENT technology development and transition. Our team has supported propulsion efforts spanning government technology programs, commercial spacecraft development, flight demonstrations, qualification campaigns, and operational missions.
Today, Rubicon provides propulsion solutions ranging from compact mobility systems for CubeSats and SmallSats to advanced thrusters and integrated propulsion architectures for larger spacecraft. We support commercial, civil, and national security customers seeking practical, high-performance mobility solutions for increasingly dynamic orbital environments.
As the space industry continues to evolve, Rubicon remains focused on advancing the technologies that will define the future of spacecraft mobility.
Rubicon's team combines expertise in propulsion engineering, spacecraft systems, manufacturing, testing, and program execution.
Our engineers and technical staff have contributed to the development, qualification, and flight demonstration of advanced spacecraft propulsion technologies, including some of the industry's most significant ASCENT-based programs. Team members bring experience from government, commercial, and national security space efforts, providing a unique understanding of the technical, operational, and mission challenges faced by spacecraft developers.
What distinguishes Rubicon is the close integration of design, manufacturing, assembly, and testing. Engineers work directly alongside technicians and test personnel, creating an environment where concepts can rapidly transition from analysis to hardware and from hardware to hot-fire testing. This approach accelerates development, reduces risk, and enables rapid response to customer needs.
The result is a team focused on practical engineering, technical excellence, and mission success—delivering propulsion solutions that help customers move farther, maneuver more effectively, and accomplish more in space.
Whether supporting a rideshare CubeSat, a responsive national security platform, or a larger commercial spacecraft, Rubicon works closely with customers to deliver propulsion solutions that balance performance, integration simplicity, operational flexibility, and mission success.