Session
Session VII: Launch Systems and Orbital Manuvering
Abstract
Work is progressing on monopropellant thrusters for use as an attitude control system for nanosatellites (satellites whose mass is under 10 kilograms). The thrust range for these microthrusters is on the order of millinewtons. Systems using both hydrazine and hydrogen peroxide are being developed which will offer higher performance than currently available thrusters for nanosatellites. Complete thruster systems using both propellant combinations have been built and are undergoing evaluation. Hot firings are currently being conducted. The microthruster system will be tested on an upcoming nanosatellite to be launched at the end of this year. These thrusters will offer an inexpensive, high performance option for attitude control for nanosatellites or fine pointing control for small satellites.
A Monopropellant Milli-Newton Thruster System for Attitude Control of Nanosatellites
Work is progressing on monopropellant thrusters for use as an attitude control system for nanosatellites (satellites whose mass is under 10 kilograms). The thrust range for these microthrusters is on the order of millinewtons. Systems using both hydrazine and hydrogen peroxide are being developed which will offer higher performance than currently available thrusters for nanosatellites. Complete thruster systems using both propellant combinations have been built and are undergoing evaluation. Hot firings are currently being conducted. The microthruster system will be tested on an upcoming nanosatellite to be launched at the end of this year. These thrusters will offer an inexpensive, high performance option for attitude control for nanosatellites or fine pointing control for small satellites.
