Micropropulsion system selection for precision formation flying satellites

Abstract

Several upcoming scientific interferometry missions (ST-3, LISA, TPF, MAXIM and SPECS) will push the limits of precision positioning of satellites. These spacecraft will require position and attitude control actuation on exceedingly small scales, which has not previously been performed. The several candidate propulsion systems for these missions include: colloid thrusters, field emission electrostatic propulsion thrusters (FEEP), pulsed plasma thrusters (PPT) and miniature cold gas thrusters. In order to assess the appropriateness of each of the candidate micropropulsion systems, a model of each is constructed. The models created are conglomerations of basic physical concepts and empirically founded relationships. Emphasis is placed on the determination of key operating parameters that are most relevant to design at the system level. Along with models of propulsion system performance, a common set of higher level metrics based on the GINA (Generalized Information Network Analysis) method is defined to allow the various propulsion concepts to be compared. High-level propulsion system design has been performed for each mission, employing the propulsion models created. These designs are evaluated according to the metrics developed and judgements are made as to which propulsion system is the most useful for each set of requirements.

Electromagnetic Formation Flight for Multisatellite Arrays

“…4 The study compared the different micropropulsion systems for the purpose of station keeping by implementing them in representative control strategies to evaluate the propellant usage. The overall system mass and cost were compared and included an estimate of the cost of bringing each type of propulsion system from its current technology readiness level (TRL) up to TRL 8.…”

Design considerations for supersonic micronozzles

“…The various approaches, all of which tend to have their unique benefits, have included liquid/solid chemical propellants and electric propulsion concepts, with somewhat of a focus on the latter. For the interested reader, a comprehensive survey of micropropulsion concepts under development can be found in Mueller (2000) and a review of micropropulsion systems targeted for formation flying applications can be found in Reichbach et al (2001). In assessing the relative merit of a given approach, it is important to recognise that each mission specification will have its own set of unique constraints.…”

Effect of Unsteadiness and Nozzle Asymmetry on Thrust of a Microthruster

“…Microthrusters operating on a variety of propellants provide motion power for main propulsion and attitude or orbit control to microsatellites or micro unmanned air vehicles (UAVs) [1]. A microthruster using solid propellants has a number of advantages, such as flexibility in propellants, easy size enlargement or reduction, no need for fuel tank/tubing or valves, and no leakage problems.…”