The Colibri propulsion system testing moves forward
Link to the videoThe Colibri propulsion system testing moves forward
Test
29.07.2026
The MaiaSpace team has successfully completed a new test campaign for Colibri, Maia’s optional third stage designed to enhance mission performance and in-orbit mobility.
This campaign, conducted on a recently commissioned test bench in Vernon, focused on the propulsion subsystem: testing a cluster of four thrusters of 250N on ground (over 400N in space) that will eventually power the 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐛𝐫𝐢 𝐤𝐢𝐜𝐤-𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐞. The test sequence started with individual firings, including pre-heating, ignition and tank pressure adjustments. The same operations were repeated before concluding with the simultaneous ignition of all four engines.
Beyond validating the operation of each engine, the campaign provided valuable data on the behaviour of the propulsion subsystem as a whole.
Testing the clustered architecture under representative operating conditions is a key step towards qualifying the kick-stage propulsion system for flight
𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐌𝐚𝐢𝐚𝐒𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐦𝐬 𝐢𝐧𝐯𝐨𝐥𝐯𝐞𝐝. Following our 𝘛𝘦𝘴𝘵&𝘓𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘯 𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘢𝘤𝘩, every campaign brings us one step closer to countdown!
