The Future Development of Gridded Ion Engines

Fearn, D. G.

doi:10.2514/6.2003-4714

Cited by 1 publication

(1 citation statement)

References 16 publications

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“…A neutralizer cathode, present on the exterior of the thruster in all ion engines, provides electrons to neutralize the ionized propellant that is emitted from the thruster [63]. The specific impulse of a gridded thruster can be varied by changing the voltage that is applied to the accelerating grids [64]. Electron bombardment and microwave thrusters are some of the other types of gridded ion thrusters where the ionization occurs due to electron bombardment with the neutral propellant and microwave power respectively [63].…”

Section: Operating Principlementioning

confidence: 99%

An Overview of Cube-Satellite Propulsion Technologies and Trends

2017

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CubeSats provide a cost effective means to perform scientific and technological studies in space. Due to their affordability, CubeSat technologies have been diversely studied and developed by educational institutions, companies and space organizations all over the world. The CubeSat technology that is surveyed in this paper is the propulsion system. A propulsion system is the primary mobility device of a spacecraft and helps with orbit modifications and attitude control. This paper provides an overview of micro-propulsion technologies that have been developed or are currently being developed for CubeSats. Some of the micro-propulsion technologies listed have also flown as secondary propulsion systems on larger spacecraft. Operating principles and key design considerations for each class of propulsion system are outlined. Finally, the performance factors of micro-propulsion systems have been summarized in terms of: first, a comparison of thrust and specific impulse for all propulsion systems; second, a comparison of power and specific impulse, as also thrust-to-power ratio and specific impulse for electric propulsion systems.

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Section: Operating Principlementioning

confidence: 99%