The satellite electric propulsion market is rapidly expanding, poised to become a billion-dollar industry boosted by emerging technologies, reshaping space exploration and satellite operations.
This article explores how original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) can effectively leverage new technologies to maximize their success in this evolving satellite electric propulsion industry.
1.Electric Iodine Thrusters
Electric iodine thrusters are emerging as a significant technology in the satellite electric propulsion market. These thrusters offer high efficiency and require less propellant, making them ideal for space applications. ThrustMe, a French start-up, developed the NPT30-I2 iodine-based thruster in 2021 as a game-changing alternative to xenon gas. Furthermore, on April 19th, 2023, NPT30-I2 iodine-based electric propulsion system was launched onboard the NorSat-TD satellite carried by a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.
The NPT30-I2 iodine-based electric propulsion system is more efficient, cost-effective, and capable of storing iodine in a non-pressurized solid state, allowing for three times the storage density without large gas tanks.
Moreover, iodine-based propulsion systems have shown an impressive 50% increase in efficiency compared to xenon.
2.Multi-Modal Electric Propulsion Engine
The Multi-Modal Electric Propulsion Engine (MEPE) is a collaborative effort between Aurora Propulsion Technologies and Aliena to develop a compact, dual-function electric propulsion system. MEPE combines Aurora's Resistojet Module (ARM) thruster for attitude control and Aliena's MUSIC hall thruster for orbital changes into a single system.
With shared propellant management and fuel tanks, MEPE allows satellites weighing up to 150 kg to operate in any orbit. This innovation resolves limitations faced by small satellite operators, who previously had to choose between multiple propulsion systems, leading to longer operational times or increased propellant requirements.
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is investing heavily in its project demonstrating high-power SEP in the Lunar Gateway, enabling spacecraft orbit maintenance and changes in orbit around the moon.
In June 2021, NASA awarded ExoTerra, a U.S.-based space technology company, with a Phase II Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) award for developing SEP upper stage in a partnership with Virgin Orbit to deliver the payload in geostationary orbit (GEO) and cis-lunar orbit.
Moreover, in November 2022, Rocket Lab delivered the final solar panels for NASA's Gateway lunar space station's Power and Propulsion Element (PPE), marking a critical milestone. The solar panels incorporate Rocket Lab's Z4J solar cells, utilize automated assembly methods, and would provide nearly 70 kilowatts of electrical power, making Gateway the most powerful electric propulsion spacecraft ever flown.
In a separate development, on April 21st, 2023, Bellatrix Aerospace, a Bengaluru-based start-up, announced to launch its experimental payload, the Hall-effect thruster (HET), aboard the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle-C55. This mission aims to demonstrate the solar electric propulsion engine for small satellites.
4.Field-Emission Electric Propulsion
Field-emission electric propulsion (FEEP) is an ion thruster that utilizes liquid metal propellants, such as indium. It is useful for small satellites, providing precise thrust maneuvers for orbital maintenance, attitude control, and accurate Earth surface monitoring.
Enpulsion, an electric propulsion company based in Austria, has developed Enpulsion Nano using FEEP technology, with approximately 200 thrusters demonstrated and over 80 thrusters in space since 2018.
In November 2022, Enpulsion achieved a significant milestone in the development of its next-generation thrusters, as the FEEP-based thruster, NEO, successfully completed the Preliminary Design Review (PDR) with the European Space Agency (ESA).
Moreover, on January 23rd, 2023, Enpulsion was chosen as the propulsion partner for OHB Italia's IRIDE constellation, which will be completed by 2026.
5.Air-Scooping Electric Propulsion
Air-scooping electric propulsion (APES) is an electric propulsion technology specifically designed for satellites operating in very low Earth orbit (VLEO). APES utilizes solar panels for power and an electric propulsion system that collects and compresses atmospheric air as a propellant.
VLEO satellites face challenges due to atmospheric drag, which can reduce their lifetimes. APES addresses this issue by periodically boosting the satellite's orbital altitude, extending its operational lifespan. This technology is well-suited for scientific, military, and civil surveillance satellites operating below 400 km from Earth’s orbit.
Moreover, commercial players such as Busek Co. and Sitael S.p.A have demonstrated successful prototypes in ground test facilities, with ongoing development conducted by universities.
Conclusion
By staying at the forefront of these technological advancements and addressing the evolving needs of the market, OEMs can position themselves for success in the thriving billion-dollar landscape of the satellite electric propulsion market.
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