New Mexico, June 16, 2025 — Desert Works Propulsion (DWP) has successfully completed initial testing of multiple prototype discharge and neutralizer cathodes developed for Turion Space Corp.’s TIE-20 ion thruster. These cathodes are foundational to Turion Space’s high-performance krypton propulsion system, which is engineered to enable advanced spacecraft mobility and precise orbital maneuvering. The successful test campaign showcases the strength of the DWP and Turion collaboration and the promise of their propulsion technology.

This testing campaign marks several important benchmarks for Desert Works Propulsion: their first successful plasma generation and the inaugural use of their new DW-1 vacuum facility. In collaboration with Turion Space, the Desert Works Propulsion team designed, manufactured, assembled, and tested multiple prototype discharge and neutralizer cathodes. These prototypes achieved performance levels comparable to higher-fidelity flight assemblies—a rare accomplishment for initial builds in aerospace development.

Desert Works Propulsion also achieved a technical breakthrough by successfully demonstrating streamlined manufacturing processes, including simplified joining methods, eliminating the need for traditional electron beam welds. This advancement simplifies the design and is unique to Desert Works Propulsion.