StellarJet, a Texas-based startup, is set to revolutionize the aviation industry with its groundbreaking solid hydrogen storage unit and electric propulsion system, both of which will be showcased at the Salon du Bourget 2025. The solid hydrogen storage unit, based on metal hydride technology, offers significant advantages over traditional liquid hydrogen systems, including enhanced safety, rapid refueling, and elimination of boil-off. With an energy density of 6.6 kWh/kg and a mass capacity of 23%, the storage unit operates efficiently across a wide temperature and pressure range.

Accompanying this innovation is StellarJet's electric propulsion system, which delivers 132 kW of power and 1,700 N of thrust while weighing just 32 pounds. Designed for distributed propulsion architectures, the system features a compact diameter of 14.8 inches and an integrated controller. Both technologies were developed in-house at StellarJet's Austin facilities and will power the company's hydrogen-powered demonstrator aircraft, scheduled for its maiden flight in summer 2025.

The solid hydrogen storage unit's modular design allows for versatile applications beyond aviation, including space exploration and industrial manufacturing. By addressing the challenges of liquid hydrogen storage, such as boil-off and safety risks, StellarJet's solution simplifies certification processes and reduces operational complexities. These advancements position the company as a leader in sustainable aviation technology, with potential implications for commercial and military aircraft.

The unveiling at Salon du Bourget 2025 marks a pivotal moment for the aviation industry, as stakeholders assess the broader impact of these technologies on environmental sustainability and operational efficiency. StellarJet's innovations could accelerate the adoption of hydrogen as a mainstream aviation fuel, paving the way for a greener future in aerospace.