The European Union co–funded project DEEP PPU is nearing its conclusion, marking the end of several years of collaborative research aimed at reducing the cost and complexity of space propulsion systems. The project has focused on developing and optimizing power electronics — a critical cost driver in electric propulsion, particularly in gridded ion thruster technology. Learn more about the DEEP PPU project.
To showcase the results, the consortium will host a final public webinar on 6 November 2025 (10:00–11:15 CET, via Webex). The event will highlight engineering milestones, technological innovations, and key results that contribute to Europe’s competitiveness in the growing field of electric propulsion. Learn more about Final the webinar.
A focus on cost and performance
Throughout its lifetime, DEEP PPU has advanced from early design concepts to the development of a tested Power Processing Unit (PPU) engineering model, integrating commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components wherever possible. The project’s results are expected to have a strong impact on mass reduction, cost efficiency, and system integration in space power systems.
Key presentations
The final webinar will feature contributions from leading researchers and industry experts:
- Javier Torres (Airbus Crisa) will discuss the development of a PPU based on COTS components for ion thrusters, addressing engineering challenges such as component selection, performance trade-offs, and the integration of a radio-frequency inverter.
- Guillermo Núñez Rodríguez (Polytechnic University of Madrid) will present work on the design of a Radio Frequency Generator (RFG) for gridded ion thrusters. His talk will focus on the impact of harness placement and the design of filtering solutions to ensure system performance.
- Franci Zajc (FRAZA Magnetic Components) will showcase the company’s role in producing custom magnetic components — including transformers, inductors, and sensors — using patented technology tailored to the needs of the PPU.
- Gilles Rouchaud (Head of Space design department and manufacturing plant, at Axon’ Cable) will provide an engaging presentation: Connecting Performance and Innovation: Axon’s Custom Harness for the DEEP PPU project.
- Fabien Malet (Airbus Defence and Space, Toulouse) will provide insights into the integration of the PPU into a complete propulsion system, highlighting its flexibility across power applications and its relevance for upcoming missions.
Event details
- Date: 6 November 2025
- Time: 10:00 – 11:15 CET
- Platform: Webex
- Registration: Open to the public
Learn more about Final the webinar.
About the DEEP PPU project
This project is co-funded by the European Union, ID 101082685. Any related tweets reflect only the views of the project owner. DEEP-PPU project focuses on improving and optimising power electronics as one of the significant cost drivers of an electric propulsion system, particularly for gridded ion technology. The consortium is led by Airbus Crisa (Spain), which will closely collaborate with Polytechnic University of Madrid (Spain), Airbus DS (France), AXON CABLE (France), Fraza (Slovenia) and WIT Berry (Latvia).
