Order of magnitude decreases in the size of scientific satellites and spacecraft could provide concurrent decreases in mission costs because of lower launch and fabrication costs. Although many subsystems are amenable to dramatic size reductions, miniaturization of the propulsion subsystems is not straightforward. There are a range of requirements for both primary and attitude control propulsion, dictated by mission requirements, satellite size, and power restrictions. Many of the established propulsion technologies can not currently be applied to microspacecraft. Because of this, micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) fabrication technology is being explored as a path for miniaturization.
Propulsion Options for Primary Thrust and Attitude Control of Microspacecraft
1998
14 pages
Report
No indication
English
Rocket Engines & Motors , Rocket Propellants , Space Technology , Propulsion , Attitude control , Miniaturization , Spacecraft components , Spacecraft control , Spacecraft design , Cost reduction , Space exploration , Spacecraft equipment , Spacecraft , Unmanned spacecraft , Scientific satellites , Mission planning , Launch costs , Electromechanics
Propulsion Options for Primary Thrust and Attitude Control of Microspacecraft
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