Auriga Space, a California-based startup, has secured $6 million in funding to develop an innovative electromagnetic launch system that uses a maglev ramp to accelerate small rockets to hypersonic speeds of 6 Mach, aiming to improve the efficiency and reduce costs of space launches.

This system features a reusable linear track with an angled ramp designed to minimize aerodynamic drag and optimize G-forces for satellite electronics, enabling rapid and cost-effective orbital launches.

The infrastructure will allow multiple tests under various conditions at lower costs, addressing a critical gap in hypersonic development and testing.

Inspired by rail gun and maglev technology, recent advances in power electronics have made this electromagnetic launch concept commercially viable, promising significant fuel savings by reducing the need for traditional propellant in the initial launch phase.

The system employs powerful superconducting magnets to propel small rockets to hypersonic speeds, significantly decreasing the mass of fuel needed for the first stage of launch, which could revolutionize small satellite deployment.

Auriga plans to develop a series of hypersonic testing facilities, including the Prometheus laboratory track and the Thor outdoor accelerator, with a full-scale Zeus orbital complex envisioned for future deployment.

Initially, the company aims to market ground testing infrastructure for hypersonic research, facilitating rapid testing and development, especially for responsive launches demanded by the U.S. Space Force.

While the system architecture is still being finalized, early studies suggest that satellite components may withstand higher G-forces than previously thought, although vehicle design must consider high-G loads.

Auriga's approach seeks to lower launch costs for small satellites, enabling faster deployment for scientific missions and increasing the frequency of experiments on platforms like the International Space Station.

The project has attracted significant support, including $4.6 million from a seed round led by OTB Ventures and $1.4 million in contracts from AFWERX and SpaceWERX, bringing total funding to over $12 million.

Auriga aims to meet the U.S. Space Force's demand for rapid, responsive launches, reducing payload launch notice times from hours to just minutes.

Overall, Auriga's innovative electromagnetic launch system has the potential to transform small satellite launches by increasing frequency, reducing costs, and enabling rapid deployment, with plans for a comprehensive testing and orbital infrastructure.