Testing the Nano AR3 FEEP Cubesat Electric Propulsion System at ESA Propulsion Laboratory
Abstract:
Space propulsion systems undergo thorough ground testing before being deployed in space. We report the results of a functional verification and performance characterisation test campaign of an integrated electric propulsion system for cubesats and microsats with purely electric thrust vectoring capability and no moving parts.
Visualisations of the plume data obtained from Faraday cup scans show a clear, corresponding trend of the variation of the inclination and azimuth angles of the thrust vector when these are commanded.
The divergence angle computed from plasma diagnostic data is 49°, independently of the achieved inclination of the ion beam.
Who is Enpulsion
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.
