Low Cost Propulsion for 21st Century Small Satellite Missions

Statistics – Applications

Scientific paper

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Scientific paper

Low cost space missions are typified by the use of small satellites. Applications enabled by small satellites are growing rapidly, enabled through wide ranging use of Commercial-Off-the-Shelf (COTS) components, microengineered instruments and bespoke but largely COTS based subsystems such as propulsion. Many traditionally large missions are being considered for implementation with one or more small inexpensive platforms. This paper covers (1) the propulsion trade-offs currently underway, comparing the current electrothermal propulsion system used in the SSTL Disaster Monitoring Constellation, with rapidly maturing alternatives including pulsed plasma thrusters, micro- electrostatic propulsion, solar thermal and colloid thrusters; (2) Case studies on representative missions with an overview of the cost drivers for current and near future small satellites; and (3) The experiences of SSTL in developing a geostationary minisatellite platform, Gemini, where propulsion significantly drives mission design, unlike previous smaller missions where it is effectively an 'add-on' module.

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