Magma Space is developing ultra-low-jitter satellite subsystems, starting with magnetically levitated reaction wheels and energy storage flywheels. Most jitter (mechanical micro-vibrations) originates from ball-bearing friction and imperfections, which hamper performance and reliability by increasing pointing errors - a critical problem in precision applications like optical communication and remote imaging. In contrast, magnetic bearings levitate the flywheel to eliminate contact points, leading to improved efficiencies at high speed and reduced micro-vibration disruptions.

Traditionally, magnetic bearings were complex with high power-consumption. Magma Space’s novel and proprietary semi-active design overcomes these downsides by simplifying the control algorithm while achieving improved power efficiency and reliability. In October ‘22, Magma Space’s first prototype achieved a 95% jitter reduction versus a comparable ball-bearing reaction wheel.