A Reaction Control Subsystem (RCS) engine for next-generation reusable space launch and transportation vehicles has been developed which utilises a thruster made of a platinum-iridium alloy.

Manufactured by the Northrop Grumman Corporation, the engine, which burns non-toxic propellants, has now been successfully tested.

The use of the platinum-iridium alloy and liquid oxygen and ethanol as propellants means that a ceramic coating is no longer needed to protect the engine.

Bernard Jackson, space technology project manager, stated: "Though we're still in the early stages of development, the platinum iridium chamber has proven very robust by handling the optimum mixture ratio with comfortable temperature margins."

"Our RCS Thruster increases the reliability, maintainability and safety of space vehicle engines," said Sonya Sepahban, vice president of technology development for Northrop Grumman Space Technology.

"We began developing this 'clean propellant' engine more than two years ago. It's the first uncoated RCS engine developed and tested in the United States for NASA. We believe this engine will greatly increase both vehicles' utility and reusability.'

RCS engines on Space Shuttle orbiters have had to be replaced due to wear and tear or foreign object damage to the ceramic coating.

Additionally, workers have to follow stringent and time-consuming safety precautions when maintaining or repairing hardware that currently uses toxic propellants.