Qualification Status Update of the MICRO R3 and NANO R3 FEEP Thrusters
Abstract:
Field-emission electric propulsion (FEEPs) as part of the electrostatic propulsion family are low-thrust, high-Isp subsystems suitable for various mission applications on satellites ranging from Cubesats over constellations to larger satellites and can be easily clustered to fulfill mission requirements. Based on space-proven liquid metal ion source (LMIS) technology, FOTEC developed the IFM Nano Thruster as a standalone FEEP subsystem including propellant management and electronics (PPU) resulting in a first IOD in early 2018. The technology is now being commercialized as ENPULSION NANO thruster by the spin-out company ENPULSION and has resulted in delivery of several hundred thrusters and more than 100 thruster units in orbit (as of Q2 2022). Further R&D efforts at both ENPULSION and FOTEC have resulted in new products: the NANO R3 as an evolutionary step based on the NANO as well as the MICRO R3 based on the same technology for more demanding mission requirements. Both products are now being qualified within an ESA qualification project, and the current status and results are presented herein.
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Enpulsion is expanding satellite mobility and maneuverability. With proven industrial expertise and in-flight heritage, we push the boundaries of what’s possible for the near-earth economy, constantly innovating to provide simple, reliable technology that meets our customers’ evolving needs.
