ThrustMe, a company focused on creating breakthrough products for both space and Earth applications has showcased a new miniaturized electric propulsion system for small satellites.
The NPT30-I2-1U from ThrustMe is a fully integrated propulsion system based on the gridded ion thruster technology. It has a modular design and includes the ion thruster, the PPU, the propellant storage, feed system as well as passive thermal management and intelligent operation control.
The I2 version of the thruster uses a solid iodine propellant, which is delivered pre-filled and remains nonpressurized during launch. The use of iodine also avoids sloshing and provides extreme geometrical design flexibility to accommodate platform requirements.
Embedded Intelligence
The thruster features built-in self-tuning algorithms with an integrated thrust computer. The thrust can be continuously throttled and multiple customizable operating modes are supported.
Advanced Safety Features
The NPT30-I2-1U has embedded fail-safe modes and redundancy includes cathodes and ignition systems. The thruster features a patented pipeless design to avoid clogging and uses non-pressurized solid propellant. An option of a radiation-hardened main controller is provided and an iodine-compatible sealing for safe storage
Performance
The thruster produces a thrust in the range of 0.3 – 1.1 mN and has a specific impulse of up to 2400 sec. It has a total impulse of up to 5500 sec and a total power of 35 – 65 W. This thruster has a thrust vector accuracy of less than 1 degree and a form factor of 1U. It also comes in a 1.5U size.
Click here to learn more about the NPT30-I2-1U Propulsion System from ThrustMe.
Click here to learn about Electric Propulsion Thrusters.
