Orbion, Michigan-based space propulsion startup has now been made a new partner by the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD). Orbion has signed a research contract from the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory’s Propulsion Directorate. The deal is specifically aimed at helping the DOD enhance the resiliency of the U.S. systems in space.

The interesting thing is to see how Orbion’s propulsion technology can be applied to DOD satellites when used in large constellation forms. The propulsion system would provide those satellites appropriate thrust while in orbit and do so cost-effectively. In a press release announcing the news, Orbion CEO, Brad King, said that volume is a strategy when it comes to fortifying the U.S. systems in space against potential foreign attacks.

Words from Orbion CEO

 According to King, by building and deploying small satellites in large numbers with low cost, the U.S. can improve the resilience of space systems. He stated, “Orbion is developing mass-production techniques to build propulsion systems for commercial customers. With this research contract, we are investigating how or if our manufacturing processes must be modified to meet DOD requirements”.

Three months ago Orbion secured $9.2 million in Series A funding, which they planned to use in mass-producing plasma thrusters for small satellites. Orbion’s thrusters are based on a phenomenon known as the Hall-effect. The thrusters use an electric field to accelerate their propellant and create thrust. The hall-effect thru

DETROIT--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Autobooks is a small business payment and accounting platform integrated within a financial institution’s digital banking experience. Today, the company announced that it has been named to the Benzinga Fintech Listmakers and acknowledged for outstanding performance in the best new product category.

.@Autobooks_ announced that it has been named to the Benzinga Fintech Listmakers and acknowledged for outstanding performance in the best new product category.

To celebrate its fifth anniversary, Benzinga honors winners for the advancements their companies are making in financial technology. The Benzinga Fintech Listmakers are comprised of 150 carefully vetted and renowned companies and executives who are striving to revolutionize the fintech industry. From deeply established companies to the newest startups, this group is impacting sectors like payments, banking, investing, technology and financial literacy.

The list of carefully selected companies will be honored each year as Benzinga continues to highlight the fintech industry’s most innovative minds. Jason Raznick, CEO of Benzinga, said, “We’re recognizing the companies that will define the future of our fina