From groundbreaking thrusters to generative design, VXB Aerospace is redefining satellite mobility and scaling Australia’s space industry.
UTS Tech Lab is proud to welcome VXB Aerospace, a trailblazing Australian space technology company, as its newest partner. Founded in 2022 by Alexander Ryan, VXB Aerospace is on a mission to unlock access to the space economy through cutting-edge propulsion technology and advanced generative design software. VXB has rapidly grown from its origins in a Sydney garage to becoming a leader in the Australian and global space industry. The company’s groundbreaking Zephyr Hall Thruster is on of the first electric hall effect small satellite propulsion system developed in the ANZ region. Utilising ultra-low-cost Argon fuel, the Zephyr system achieves high thrust efficiency while cutting costs by up to 5x, setting a new benchmark for sustainable and cost-effective satellite propulsion.
VXB Aerospace Team at Cicada Innovations
Shifting Focus: From Hardware to Software
VXB Aerospace has evolved from a space hardware company to a leader in generative design software tailored for complex space hardware. The transition reflects their commitment to delivering innovative solutions that adapt to the rapidly changing needs of the space industry and the specific requirements of its customers. By leveraging their in-house expertise, VXB has developed software platforms that enable rapid design and validation of complex space hardware, such as propulsion systems. This generative design approach significantly reduces development timelines, cutting what once took years to mere weeks or months. Using evolutionary algorithms, VXB’s software rapidly generates designs that engineers can review and refine. The platform adapts to the unique requirements of each customer and supports the use of off-the-shelf materials, expediting sourcing, manufacturing, and delivery. These innovations have revolutionised the production of satellite components, enhancing efficiency while maintaining precision and performance.
Global Recognition and Strategic Partnerships
VXB’s pioneering work has attracted international interest. They have established partnerships with major US defence contractors and are in discussions with NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory for pilot projects involving generative design and 3D printing of satellite components. This includes work with unexpected materials like soft magnetic alloys, pushing the boundaries of advanced manufacturing.
The company’s focus on collaboration extends to their involvement in the Techstars Space Accelerator, where they forged connections with leading space and defence organisations, expanding its market reach within a trillion-dollar industry. These efforts are bolstered by over $2 million in investments, including federal grants and letters of intent from prominent partners and customers.
Another milestone for VXB is their planned use of the 3D printing capabilities at Western Sydney’s Advanced Manufacturing Park. This initiative supports the onshoring of advanced manufacturing processes, including the use of unexpected materials. By fostering these capabilities locally, VXB is strengthening Australia’s space and defence sectors.
Alexander Ryan, CEO, VXB Aerospace
Next Steps at UTS Tech Lab
VXB’s partnership with UTS Tech Lab marks an exciting chapter in their growth. The state-of-the-art facilities at UTS provide resources for scaling manufacturing, testing propulsion systems in specialised vacuum environments, and fostering collaborations with students, researchers, and industry partners such as Nokia, Space Machines Company and Advanced Navigation.
Joining UTS Tech Lab enables us to scale our innovations and accelerate the development of generative design-driven satellite hardware. Together, we’re setting a new standard for sustainable, cost-efficient, space technology. We’re working alongside other start-ups and SME’s at UTS Tech Lab, which brings knowledge sharing and collaboration opportunities which we are excited to explore. Alexander Ryan, CEO and Founder of VXB Aerospace.
“UTS Tech Lab embodies the power of an ecosystem that brings together start-ups, academics, students, government, and industry,” said Professor Michael Blumenstein, UTS Pro Vice Chancellor (Business Creation and Major Facilities). “This dynamic collaboration enables groundbreaking innovations, like those from VXB Aerospace, to thrive and propel Australia’s space sector to new heights.”
UTS Tech Lab is proud to partner with VXB Aerospace, fostering an environment where bold ideas become reality and positioning Australia as a leader in the ever-expanding global space economy.