The Exploration Company Partners With Ansys to Develop a Reusable Space Vehicle

The Exploration Company, a space logistics startup, has announced on April 4th its collaboration with Ansys, a leader in multiphysics simulation solutions. This partnership aims to develop Nyx, a modular and reusable space vehicle featuring a methane-based propulsion system.

An artist's render of Nyx, a modular, reusable and in-orbit refuelable spacecraft. Credits: The Exploration Company — *An artist’s render of Nyx, a modular, reusable and in-orbit refuelable spacecraft. Credits: The Exploration Company*

Nyx’s mission is set to commence with deliveries to stations in Earth’s orbit, facilitating advanced research in various fields such as microgravity, with potential applications in pharmaceuticals and agriculture.

The Exploration Company began the development of the spacecraft in 2021. Notably, they’re aiming for a 2024 demo flight of a prototype called Bikini Demo, on board Ariane 6, and a 2026 maiden flight.

The company advertises 4000 kg in Low Earth Orbit for up to 6 months, 5,500 kg to the Lunar Gateway and 2,000 kg to the lunar surface.

Sustainable propulsion

The propulsion system of spacecraft like Nyx plays a pivotal role, demanding resilience against extreme loads, thermal variations, and pressure differentials while minimizing weight.

Traditional engines, reliant on fossil fuels, present sustainability challenges and operational limitations as the space industry expands its reach. In contrast, methane propulsion systems offer a promising alternative by emitting fewer pollutants, extending travel capabilities, and enhancing landing accuracy due to their agility and navigational ease.

Designed for versatility, Nyx is poised to transport cargo to and from the Moon and space stations, maneuver freely around Earth, refuel in orbit, and safely re-enter the atmosphere, setting the stage for future exploration endeavors.

The underlying technology of Nyx is made openly available to aerospace companies, fostering a transition toward electric-powered travel and democratizing access to space exploration while bolstering its sustainability.

Why this collaboration

The collaboration between The Exploration Company and Ansys hopes to mark a significant stride in advancing reusable space capsules. Leveraging Ansys’ suite of simulation solutions, the team can fine-tune engine specifications and streamline development processes.

Sebastien Reichstadt, lead propulsion engineer at The Exploration Company, highlighted the significance of those simulation capabilities: “Through the Ansys Startup Program, we can answer critical design questions in the early stages of our engines’ development. Ansys […] allow us to quickly conduct iterative designs and prototyping up to validation.”

An artist's render of the Nyx spacecraft on the Lunar surface. Credits: The Exploration Company — *An artist’s render of the Nyx spacecraft on the Lunar surface. Credits: The Exploration Company*

In addition to that, he said: “Only with Ansys simulation can we ensure that the propulsion systems of Nyx will meet the stringent requirements of spaceflight and reusability.”

“Efficient, eco-friendly propulsion is the next milestone in exploring the cosmos with greater precision,” said Walt Hearn, senior vice president of worldwide sales and customer excellence at Ansys.

Additionally, he further highlighted Ansys’ commitment to providing mission-critical technology, enabling customers like The Exploration Company to correlate simulation results with real-world data, thereby reducing project costs and accelerating timelines for deep space exploration.