Using reconfigurable and adaptable networks of micro/nanosatellites to support cost-effective space missions is a popular new direction in the space community Micropropulsion systems, which control a satellite's dynamics and attitude, are instrumental to the success of such missions. Since the overall resources available for a micro/nanosatellite are more restricted than for a single large satellite, the micropropulsion system must be lightweight, low power and low cost. This study provides an initial estimate of the mission requirements that drive a micropropulsion design for a university-built microsatellite. It is demonstrated, through a pragmatic joint venture between a university and a government laboratory, that university satellites are an effective testbed for unconventional new technologies. An example of a university satellite that successfully served as a technology demonstration platform as well as an effective education instrument is presented. A follow-on mission, which will be the platform for flight testing a micropropulsion module, is then described. Two candidate micropropulsion systems, the free molecule micro-resistojet and a cold-gas micronozzle, have been studied for applicability to the prescribed mission. The preliminary study concludes that the free molecule micro-resistojet is the more appropriate micropropulsion system for this particular mission.
University Microsatellite as a MEMS-Based Propulsion Testbed
2000
22 pages
Report
No indication
English
Rocket Engines & Motors , Astronautics , Test beds , Rocket propulsion , Microelectromechanical systems , Low power , Flight testing , Military requirements , Symposia , Spacecraft , Cost effectiveness , Low costs , Military satellites , Space missions , Rocket nozzles , Microminiaturization , Cold gases , Resistorjet engines , Nanotechnology , University microsatellite , Micropropulsion systems , Micronozzles , Fmmr(Free molecule microresistorjet) , Nanosatellites
British Library Conference Proceedings | 1999
|AIAA | 1999
|Integrated propulsion subsystem testbed
AIAA | 1994
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