An Electric Propulsion diagnostic package for the characterization of the plasma thruster/spacecraft interactions on STENTOR satellite

Abstract

The Electric Propulsion (EP) full viability, as a standard propulsion sub-system both for GE0 satellites and for large LEO satellite constellations, needs be conflied by suitable in-flight experimentation. Technology demonstration satellites can be used as test bed to assess the influence of the plasma plume generated by an Electric thruster on spacecraft sub-systems and parts, throughout satellite operational lifetime. In Europe, The French satellite STENTOR (program supported by CNES) is specifically dedicated to the EP in-flight test and to the characterization of the possible plasma interactions induced by the operation on board of Hall Effect Thrusters (HET). In the frame of this program the use of a Plasma Diagnostic Package (PDP) suitable for the HET propulsion is envisaged In this scenario LABEN Proel Tecnologie Division is completing the development and proto-qualification (under ALCATEL contract) of a PDP, light and compact (less than 1.3 kg, included the electronics), based on a Retarding Potential Analyzer @PA) and a Langmuir Probe (LP). The PDP allows the collection of experimental data on energy distribution of ions in the periphery of the plasma beam, of plasma parameters and of erosion/contamination issues (this latter measurement is in charge of probes external to the PDP, being the interface to these probes managed inside the PDP). This paper presents the architecture of the PDP, its performances and operation modes, as well as a general overview on mass, dimensions and power breakdowns. The last part of the paper addresses the most significant tests of the proto-qualification test campaign.