DUPLEX

DUPLEX [CU Aerospace]

DUPLEX (Dual Propulsion Experiment) is a 6U CubeSat developed by CU Aerospace (CUA), United States, to demonstrate two new micropropulsion systems in orbit. The mission provides initial flight heritage for the Fiber-fed Pulsed Plasma Thruster (FPPT) and the Monofilament Vaporization Propulsion (MVP) thruster.

The mission objective is the in-space verification of CUA�s micropropulsion technologies. The thrusters are designed to offer lower-cost and safer alternatives to existing small-satellite propulsion systems. Flight data from DUPLEX supports future commercial and governmental applications requiring compact and reliable propulsion for CubeSats.

DUPLEX is funded by NASA�s Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD) under its 2019 Tipping Point initiative. The program supports the maturation of efficient propulsion concepts that decrease operational risk and cost. The FPPT and MVP systems operate with spooled PTFE and Delrin propellants, which are non-corrosive, non-toxic, non-pressurized, and simple to handle, improving safety during development and integration.

CU Aerospace, LLC, is a U.S.-based propulsion technology company specializing in micropropulsion and advanced aerospace systems. The technologies demonstrated on DUPLEX represent the company�s ongoing work to provide compact electric-propulsion solutions for small spacecraft.

DUPLEX is built as a 6U CubeSat platform hosting two independent propulsion units. The FPPT uses fiber-fed PTFE as a solid propellant for pulsed plasma discharges, offering a low-mass and electrically efficient option for fine attitude and orbit adjustments. The MVP thruster vaporizes monofilament polymer to produce controlled thrust suitable for small-satellite maneuvering. The CubeSat includes telemetry and diagnostic systems to capture performance data during operation.

The satellite was transported to orbit aboard Northrop Grumman�s Cygnus XL spacecraft on the Commercial Resupply Services 23 (CRS-23/NG-23) mission to the International Space Station. Launch occurred on 14 September 2025 via a SpaceX Falcon 9 from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. DUPLEX deployment from the ISS was planned for around 1 November 2025, with on-orbit operations commencing shortly after release.