Concept of Operation Logic and Implementation Expectations for Multimode Propulsion Technology Demonstration Missions

Concept of Operation Logic and Implementation Expectations for Multimode Propulsion Technology Demonstration Missions

Salt Palace Convention Center, Salt Lake City, UT

Traditional single-mode propulsion systems are typically optimized for either high-thrust, short-duration maneuvers (chemical propulsion) or high-efficiency, low-thrust operations (electric propulsion). For CubeSats, which are limited by mass, volume, power, and system complexity, carrying separate propulsion systems for each mission phase is often impractical. Multimode propulsion systems overcome this limitation by combining chemical and electric propulsion within a shared architecture, allowing a single spacecraft to perform both rapid maneuvers and efficient long-duration orbit maintenance.

Demonstrating a multimode propulsion system requires more than operating two propulsion modes on the same spacecraft. Shared propellant, feed systems, thermal interactions, power usage, and transitions between operating modes all affect system performance and the interpretation of flight data. To address these challenges, the proposed framework uses a data-first design approach that defines the required measurements and telemetry before mission operations, along with a phase-gated demonstration strategy that progresses from basic functionality tests to detailed performance characterization and stress testing, with each stage evaluated before proceeding to the next.