DARPA making low-hanging satellites that use air to move

DARPA has awarded Redwire a $44 million contract to develop the Otter satellite program, creating spacecraft that use air-breathing electric propulsion to operate in Very Low Earth Orbit (90-450 kilometers altitude). These satellites collect thin atmospheric air, convert it to plasma, and shoot out charged particles for propulsion, eliminating the need for traditional fuel. Redwire's 39-inch SabreSat could operate for seven years at 150-kilometer altitude, offering improved surveillance and communications capabilities.