German company using Ansys technology on space vehicle

Germany-based The Exploration Co., a space logistics startup, is using Pittsburgh-based Ansys’ simulation solutions to develop a modular and reusable space vehicle.

The vehicle, called Nyx, is designed to free fly around Earth, carry cargo to and from the Moon and space stations, re-fuel in orbit, and re-enter Earth’s atmosphere before embarking on future missions. It uses a methane-based propulsion system.

Methane propulsion systems have extended travel capabilities, emit fewer pollutants, and achieve more predictively accurate landings compared to conventional turbo engines.

Turbo engines are heavy, rely on fossil fuels, and have range limitations.

“Through the Ansys Startup Program, we can answer critical design questions in the early stages of our engines’ development,” Sebastien Reichstadt, The Exploration Co. lead propulsion engineer, said. “Ansys’ proven high-fidelity simulation and interactive modeling allow us to quickly conduct iterative designs and prototyping up to validation. Only with Ansys simulation can we ensure that the propulsion systems of Nyx will meet the stringent requirements of spaceflight and reusability.”

Nyx will be used to deliver technologies to stations in Earth’s orbit for advanced research in areas such as microgravity. The research has applications in many industries including the pharmaceutical and agricultural.

Spacecraft propulsion systems must withstand heavy loads and high thermal and pressure variables.