Session
Weekend Session 1: Advanced Technologies - Research & Academia I
Location
Utah State University, Logan, UT
Abstract
Next-generation nanosatellite missions will require precise linear impulse and torque bits for optimized attitude and trajectory control. To address this requirement, a Vectored Electrospray Thruster (VET) that provides high-resolution multi-axis attitude actuation via thrust vector control was investigated at the Royal Military College of Canada Advanced Propulsion and Plasma Exploration Laboratory (RAPPEL). The VET employs arrays of linear porous wedge emitters and uses pulse-width modulation to produce stepped emission differentials across the nanosatellite propulsion plane. A two-emitter prototype offering single-axis attitude actuation was developed to validate the thruster concept, and a custom power processing unit and complementary diagnostics suite were built to characterize the thruster performance. The prototype was tested in the RAPPEL high-vacuum chamber and successfully demonstrated pulsed electrospray emission as well as sequential and simultaneous operation of two emitters, ultimately validating the VET concept.
Development and Characterization of a Vectored Electrospray Thruster
Utah State University, Logan, UT
Next-generation nanosatellite missions will require precise linear impulse and torque bits for optimized attitude and trajectory control. To address this requirement, a Vectored Electrospray Thruster (VET) that provides high-resolution multi-axis attitude actuation via thrust vector control was investigated at the Royal Military College of Canada Advanced Propulsion and Plasma Exploration Laboratory (RAPPEL). The VET employs arrays of linear porous wedge emitters and uses pulse-width modulation to produce stepped emission differentials across the nanosatellite propulsion plane. A two-emitter prototype offering single-axis attitude actuation was developed to validate the thruster concept, and a custom power processing unit and complementary diagnostics suite were built to characterize the thruster performance. The prototype was tested in the RAPPEL high-vacuum chamber and successfully demonstrated pulsed electrospray emission as well as sequential and simultaneous operation of two emitters, ultimately validating the VET concept.
