Technology

This space company is betting its future on a propellant available everywhere

Ars Technica November 03, 2026 14 views
This space company is betting its future on a propellant available everywhere

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Three SpaceX Engineers Launch Argo Space for In-Space Propulsion

Three former SpaceX engineers, Robert, Ryan, and Kirby Carlisle, have embarked on a new venture with the launch of their space company, Argo Space, in late 2022. The brothers, who have extensive experience launching, refurbishing, and selling rockets during their time at SpaceX, have decided to focus on spacecraft instead of building rockets for their own venture.

Argo Space: Harnessing Water for In-Space Propulsion

Argo Space aims to revolutionize the space industry by developing a new approach to in-space transportation. Instead of relying on propellants sourced from Earth, the company has chosen water as a means of propulsion, recognizing its potential availability on locations such as the Moon and across the Solar System.

Water as a Propulsion Solution

The Carlisle brothers' decision to utilize water as a propulsion source stems from its widespread availability in space. Water, a key component of rocket fuel, can be harvested on celestial bodies like the Moon and throughout the Solar System. This innovative approach aims to address the challenges associated with transporting propellants from Earth, significantly reducing launch costs and streamlining space exploration efforts.

Background on the Carlisle Brothers

Robert, Ryan, and Kirby Carlisle, the founders of Argo Space, bring a wealth of experience from their time at SpaceX. Their expertise in launching, refurbishing, and selling rockets has laid the foundation for their new endeavor in the space industry.

Argo Space: A Focus on In-Space Infrastructure

Aside from their work on rockets, the Carlisle brothers have a clear vision for Argo Space centered around developing space infrastructure. By developing water-based propulsion solutions, the company aims to revolutionize in-space transportation and contribute to the advancement of space exploration.

The Importance of Water in Space Exploration

The Carlisle brothers' choice of water as a propulsion source highlights its significance in space exploration. Water, being a crucial component of rocket fuel, can be harvested on celestial bodies like the Moon and throughout the Solar System. This innovative approach promises to reduce launch costs and streamline space exploration efforts.

Argo Space's Mission

Argo Space's mission is centered around developing space infrastructure and revolutionizing in-space transportation. By focusing on water-based propulsion solutions, the company aims to address the challenges associated with transporting propellants from Earth, ultimately contributing to the advancement of space exploration.

The Carlisle Brothers' Previous Experiences

The Carlisle brothers, Robert, Ryan, and Kirby, bring extensive experience from their time at SpaceX, where they specialized in rocket launches, refurbishment, and sales. Their expertise in the space industry forms the foundation for their new endeavor with Argo Space, where they aim to revolutionize in-space transportation and contribute to the expansion of space exploration.

Water as a Propulsion Source in Space

The Carlisle brothers' choice of water as a propulsion source highlights its significance in space exploration. Water, being a vital component of rocket fuel, can be harvested on celestial bodies like the Moon and across the Solar System. This innovative approach aims to reduce launch expenses and streamline space exploration efforts.

<small>Source: Ars Technica — read the original story there.</small>

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