hypergolic propellants

Hypergolic propellants are rocket fuels that ignite spontaneously upon contact with each other, eliminating the need for an external ignition system. Typically, these propellants consist of a fuel and an oxidizer that react immediately when combined, producing the necessary thrust to propel spacecraft. This property allows for simpler, reliable engine design and rapid ignition—crucial for precise maneuvering in space. However, hypergolics are highly toxic and corrosive, requiring careful handling. They are commonly used in satellite thrusters, spacecraft maneuvering engines, and missile systems due to their quick ignition capability and reliability.