Safe, Inexpensive Method to Propel Small Satellites

Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN

The micropropulsion system for nanosatellite applications uses a liquid-fed pulsed-plasma thruster. (Image: Purdue University)

The first CubeSat was launched in 1999; since then, more than 1,000 have been launched. The small size and relatively low cost have made CubeSats popular choices for commercial launches in recent years. The rapid development and application of nanosatellite technology has vastly accelerated mission complexity — sparking interest in robust, low-power, and high-specific-impulse micropropulsion systems.

A novel micropropulsion system was developed for nanosatellite applications using a liquid-fed pulsed-plasma thruster. It uses a liquid propellant for a Lorentz-force pulsed-plasma accelerator and an extended lifetime ignition system driven by nanosecond-long pulses.

The innovation helps address current challenges with CubeSat micropropulsion systems including short operational lifetimes, contamination risks, and economic challenges. The system is better able to operate reliably for the entire mission and the liquid propellant does not create contamination risks to the subsystems.

For more information, contact Chris Adam at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; 765-588-3341.