Lichtenau, Germany – May 12, 2025 – ISPTech, a spin-off from DLR and provider of advanced propulsion systems for spacecraft, is proud to announce the signing of a major contract with ATMOS Space Cargo, a European leader in return logistics from space to Earth. Under this contract, ATMOS will integrate ISPTech's full HyNOx propulsion system, comprising 1N and 22N HyNOx thrusters into its next generation return capsule, PHOENIX 2.

ATMOS Space Cargo designs and manufactures space capsules to return cargo from space, offering microgravity on demand for research and manufacturing. At the core of their innovative technology, is the return capsule and Inflatable Heat Shield, which is designed to revolutionize space logistics by providing affordable, scalable, and sustainable Earth-to-Space-to-Earth logistics.

ISPTech's HyNOx propulsion system is based on over a decade of research at the DLR Institute of Space Propulsion. Leveraging non-toxic propellants, standard parts, and advanced additive manufacturing, the HyNOx thrusters offer robust, cost-effective solutions with rapid production timelines, ideal for modern space missions.

"We are very happy to work with ATMOS Space Cargo and support their groundbreaking efforts in space logistics," said Lukas Werling, Co-Founder and CEO of ISPTech. "This partnership underscores our commitment to providing innovative and reliable propulsion solutions for the NewSpace age."

ATMOS gained valuable real-world flight data and insights during its first re-entry mission with its PHOENIX 1 prototype in April 2025. The integration of the ISPTech propulsion system will enable precise de-orbiting and re-entry capabilities, enhancing ATMOS' return services for life sciences, in-space manufacturing, dual use applications, and multi-tonne cargo such as rocket stages. PHOENIX 2 is planned to fly in 2026.

Sebastian Klaus, CEO and Co-Founder of ATMOS Space Cargo, commented, "This partnership with ISPTech is a testament to the short lead time, the great capabilities of their thrusters and propulsion systems, and the extremely capable team behind them. We are excited to accelerate our time to market for our life sciences service with Phoenix and larger projects like LEO Cargo Return."

While the signing ceremony took place on April 9, 2025, the two companies have been in close technical exchange leading up to the agreement to ensure that both, capsule design requirements and propulsion system specifications were aligned from the start. In the coming months, the teams on both sides will be working side by side to integrate the HyNOx propulsion system into PHOENIX in preparation of ATMOS' upcoming mission.

For more information about ISPTech and its propulsion solutions, visit ISPTech's website:

https://www.isptech.space/

 For more information about ATMOS Space Cargo and its return services, visit:

https://atmos-space-cargo.com/

About ISPTech

ISPTech is a leading provider of advanced propulsion systems for spacecraft, offering robust, affordable, and easy-to-use solutions for every mission. With over 10 years of R&D at the German Aerospace Center (DLR), ISPTech's technologies are designed to meet the growing demand for cost-effective and reliable propulsion solutions in the rapidly expanding space market.

About Atmos Space Cargo

ATMOS Space Cargo is a European space company building a sustainable return logistics platform to transport cargo from Low Earth Orbit back to Earth. The company’s core technology, the PHOENIX capsule, enables the safe and efficient return of scientific, commercial, and dual-use payloads from space. PHOENIX features an innovative Inflatable Heat Shield developed by ATMOS, allowing the controlled return of cargo of various sizes — from small payloads up to 100 kg to multi-tonne rocket stages. ATMOS is building the infrastructure to establish sovereign access to and from space as an accessible, reliable, and strategic pillar of modern European infrastructure.

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