STO-Activities: (no title)
Activity title:
Innovative Solutions for Micro-Propulsion Systems for Small Spacecraft
Activity Reference:
AVT-406
Panel:
AVT
Security Classification:
NATO UNCLASSIFIED
Status:
Active
Activity type:
RTG
Start date:
2024-01-01T00:00:00Z
Actual End date:
2027-12-31T00:00:00Z
Keywords:
efficient propellants, High performing micro power, MEMS technology, micropropulsion, multimodal thrusters, small satellite platform
Background:
The primary focus of this Task Group is to investigate and assess micro-scale power technology for satellite propulsion systems, with a specific emphasis on advanced propellants for microthrusters, in order to move away from Hydrazine and become “greener”. Micro power technology holds great potential for enabling in-space propulsion, including primary propulsion, precision pointing, de-orbiting at the end-of-life and orbital maneuvering. The next phase of the work will concentrate on developing MEMS-based micro power devices for propulsion, subject to both experimental and numerical evaluation, as highlighted in the recent AVT-344. This complex endeavor demands the application and enhancement of advanced techniques and technologies, including novel approaches like the use of micro plasma discharges, as highlighted in the recent AVT-254. Furthermore, STO possesses the unique capabilities to coordinate a multinational NATO effort to evaluate a wide range of micro power technology. The Task Group will establish a cohesive multinational endeavor to create a common experimental database, define specific evaluation criteria, assess predictive capabilities, and promote high-performance micro power devices.
Objectives:
Facilitating an international collaboration of experimentalists and numerical simulation experts is Task Group's objective, focusing on developing high-performance micropropulsion systems for aerospace applications. The long-term scientific challenge involves: 1. Numerical Modelling: Creating high-fidelity models to predict phenomena in large-scale propulsion systems (e.g., combustion, phase change, heat transfer, electromagnetic and plasma ionization) at a micrometric scale. 2. Prototyping: Designing and developing a microthruster prototype for testing under various conditions, depending on the analysis focus. 3. Common Database: Establishing a shared database containing experimental and numerical data, aiding validation in ground facilities. A matrix of specific test cases for each micro power device will be vital for standardizing micro propulsion technologies. Regular communication (biannual exchanges) among research group members and coordination with a partner NATO research lecture series are essential. The technical team will operate for a 3-year period, fostering advancements in micropropulsion technology for space propulsion of small spacecraft.
Topics:
The scientific topics to be covered may include:
1. “GREENER” PROPELLANT TECHNOLOGIES: Exploration and development of environmentally friendly propellants that have reduced toxicity and lower environmental impact compared to traditional propellants.
2. MICROPROPULSION SYSTEMS: Research on advanced micropropulsion systems, including MEMS-based thrusters and other miniaturized propulsion technologies.
3. THRUSTER PERFORMANCE AND EFFICIENCY: Analyzing the performance and efficiency of advanced microthrusters under various operating conditions to optimize thrust-to-mass ratios and specific impulse.
4. NOVEL PROPULSION CONCEPTS: Investigating innovative propulsion concepts and exploring their feasibility and potential benefits for the developed adavanced microthrusters.
5. MATERIALS AND FABRICATION TECHNIQUES: Researching materials suitable for “greener” microthrusters and examining fabrication techniques for reliable and cost-effective manufacturing.
6. INTEGRATION AND SYSTEM DESIGN: Integrating “greener” microthrusters into satellite and small spacecraft systems, considering power requirements, control mechanisms, and overall system performance.
7. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT: Evaluating the environmental impact of green microthrusters and comparing it to conventional propulsion technologies.
8. THRUSTER CONTROL AND STABILITY: Investigating control strategies for precise maneuvering and stability of microthrusters in space missions.
9. TESTING AND VALIDATION: Conducting experimental tests and numerical simulations to validate the performance and reliability of advanced microthrusters.
10. MISSION APPLICATIONS: Exploring potential mission applications for these advanced microthrusters, including orbit maneuvering, attitude control, deorbiting and formation flying.
Contact:
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Title:
Created at 23/10/2023 17:00 by System Account
Last modified at 16/05/2024 11:00 by System Account
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