University of Sydney student breaks NASA's fuel efficiency record by using space junks

NASA's current fuel efficiency record has been outperformed by an Australian student by developing a new fuel technology that uses space junks. University of Sydney student Paddy Neumann has created a new ion space drive that could aid in recycling metals from old satellites in space to refuel spacecraft for more distant space exploration, in a cheaper process.

Ion drives are the propulsion systems that expel ions to create thrust that can propel a spacecraft forward at top speeds than any other rocket currently available. The student’s ion drive uses magnesium and other metals for the system to work, while the current record holder for fuel efficiency of NASA, the High Power Electric Propulsion, or HiPEP, system works with xenon gas.

The University of Sydney student newspaper, Honi Soit, reported that Neumann’s new ion drive allows up to 14,690 seconds of impulse, beating NASA’s HiPEP system that has achieved 9,600 seconds. The student will present his findings at the 15th Australian Space Research Conference on Sept. 30.

With further improvements, Neumann told Honi Soit, the new ion drive system could propel a spacecraft to "Mars and back on one tank of fuel," and reduce the cost of space transportation. The new drive could also keep satellites to orbit in space for longer times, he added.

The drive works on a continuous rhythm of short and light bursts, which can reduce the use of fuel and will allow long-term space missions, the Honi Soit reported. The current industry standard chemical propulsion devices operate through short, high-powered bursts of thrust.

However, Neumann’s more fuel-efficient drive is yet unable to accelerate a spacecraft. But the ion drive may help transport cargo and passengers in farther distances without having to stop and refuel if paired with other propulsion systems.

On Sept 15, Neumann has applied for a copyright for the new technology under the company name Neumann Space, and he was given the intellectual property right with a two professors who helped in the project. However, the University of Sydney's commercial arm did not allow the technology for commercialisation, but Neumann still aims for funding to further improve the new ion drive.

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