Andrew Aurigema is a professional Aerospace Engineer, the co-founder of Exodus Propulsion Technologies, and developed the propellantless propulsion system known as the Exodus Effect. Based around the Asymmetrical Electrostatic Pressure concept, his propulsion team has created, tested and documented more than 1500 separate “thruster” test articles in air, oil, and vacuum. Ongoing research includes meta material investigation, electrostatic field interactions, and RF based thrust generation.

Andrew Aurigema: The Propulsion Pioneer from the Space Coast

Andrew (often known simply as “Drew”) Aurigema is a second‑generation Space Coast native whose childhood dreams of moon landings and Star Trek weren’t just sci‑fi fantasies—they were the map to his future. Raised with a deep fascination for space, he pursued a path that would one day see him at the helm of a groundbreaking propulsion research company.

Today, Andrew is a professional Aerospace Engineer and co‑founder of Exodus Propulsion Technologies, a bold space‑startup dedicated to reimagining how we propel objects through space—without propellant. From a private airfield just north of the Kennedy Space Center, he manages his own space program while building rockets—and occasional pizzas—for others.

From Wooden Models to Warp-Drive Dreams

Andrew’s journey began modestly, tinkering with balsa‑wood models and flyback transformer lifters more than two decades ago. His relentless curiosity led him from simple experiments to developing a working, propellantless propulsion concept known as the Exodus Effect. His team at Exodus has fabricated, tested, and documented over 1,500 thruster prototypes—operating them in air, oil, and vacuum conditions.

These experimental thrusters are grounded in a concept called Asymmetrical Electrostatic Pressure (AEP). In essence, voltage differences across shaped conductive surfaces generate electric fields and electrostatic pressure imbalances—resulting in net thrust without expelling any propellant.

A Blend of Science, Safety, and Sagacious Humor

In public demos, Andrew has shared insights on building DIY versions of the Exodus thruster—like a Styrofoam‑based, epoxy‑sealed design with copper‑foil electrodes that produced measurable, though modest, thrust (~0.1 mN at 40 kV). While performance remains far below what’s needed to lift the device, such experiments offer valuable learning on safety, vacuum operation, and replicability.

More than an engineer, Andrew injects personality into his work—and the world of experimental propulsion. He humorously notes that of all his research pursuits, bread‑making is the most difficult and rewarding. On any given Sunday, he quips, his hangar is the unique place on Earth featuring both fresh pizza and an operational “warp drive.”

Leading the Exodus Mission

As co‑founder of Exodus Propulsion Technologies, Andrew leads research into not just electrostatic thrusters but also meta‑materials, RF‑based thrust mechanisms, and intricate electrostatic field interactions. His work combines meticulous experimentation with visionary ambition—driven by a belief that propellantless propulsion could redefine how we navigate the cosmos.

Final Thought

Andrew Aurigema embodies the spirit of hands-on innovation. From childhood fascinations to meticulously documented experiments, his journey is a testament to chasing “impossible” ideas with rigor, creativity, and a dash of humor. Whether or not the Exodus Effect achieves commercial flight one day, the path Andrew has charted offers inspiration to dreamers and engineers alike.

Links:

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