Systems and methods for achieving pristine microgravity in low earth orbit (LEO) using electric propulsion. Long-duration, low thrust, electric thrusters provide a constant thrust force for a pristine microgravity environment within a given volume of a space vehicle experiencing drag forces in LEO. Large space vehicles in LEO configured to be pressurized for human habitation, for instance having a mass of at least 40,000 kg and an internal volume of at least 400 m3, can use the electric propulsion systems and methods to achieve a quasi-steady acceleration less than or equal to 1.0 μg for durations of 180 consecutive days or longer.


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    Title :

    Microgravity in low earth orbit with continuous electric propulsion



    Publication date :

    2024-10-29


    Type of media :

    Patent


    Type of material :

    Electronic Resource


    Language :

    English


    Classification :

    IPC:    B64G Raumfahrt , COSMONAUTICS





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    S. R. Oleson / J. M. Sankovic | NTIS | 1998


    Electric Propulsion for Low Earth Orbit Constellations

    S. R. Oleson / J. M. Sankovic | NTIS | 1998


    Electric Propulsion for Low Earth Orbit Constellations

    Oleson, Steven R. / Sankovic, John M. | NTRS | 1998