About Us
Our Mission
To advance humankind’s reach into space by designing, developing, and delivering world-class electric propulsion systems and plasma technologies. We combine engineering precision with creative innovation to empower spacecraft to travel farther, operate longer, and explore deeper. Through research excellence, collaborative partnerships, and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of possibility, we aim to be a trusted propulsion partner to the global space industry — enabling missions that inspire, discover, and endure.
Our Journey
Founded
2007This photo was taken in At ALTA S.p.a, Pisa - Italy, on 20th September, 2006, 16h07. Showing the end of the meeting after the Articles of Association and Memorandum of Association discussion was finalized, with Paolo Gessini (left), Mariano Andrenucci (center), Michele Coletti (right). From this moment, Mars Space Ltd (MSL) was born. From the outset, MSL positioned itself as a fast-growing, innovation-focused SME providing solutions and consultancy in space, plasma technology, and scientific research. While its capabilities spanned multiple domains, the company’s primary focus was — and remains — Space Electric Propulsion.
First Home
2011MSL moved into its first dedicated business premises at Basepoint Business Centre, Southampton. This marked the beginning of its transition from academic collaboration to independent engineering operations. During this period, MSL constructed its first three vacuum chambers, laying the foundation for in-house testing and qualification of propulsion components.
Acquired
2019MSL was acquired by Aerospazio Tecnologie Srl, an Italian company specialising in high-precision test services for electric propulsion, thermovacuum systems, and space environment simulation. The acquisition strengthened MSL’s access to European markets and advanced testing infrastructure, while preserving its operational autonomy and engineering leadership.
New Home
2022MSL relocated to its current headquarters at Adanac Park, Southampton, occupying a 14,478 sq ft facility. This move enabled significant expansion of its laboratory, cleanroom, and machining capabilities, supporting larger-scale production and more complex propulsion programmes.
Acquiring Intellect
2022MSL signed a strategic agreement with QinetiQ Space, securing access to the T-series of thrusters, cathodes, and associated intellectual property. This acquisition also included three large vacuum chambers and specialist production equipment, significantly enhancing MSL’s ability to deliver high-performance propulsion systems and support legacy hardware and missions.
Present Day
2025MSL is continually expanding its capabilities, knowledge base, and product portfolio. With a growing team of propulsion specialists, technicians, and simulation experts, MSL continues to collaborate with leading institutions and industrial partners across the world.