Development of minimalistic propulsion system for university nanosatellite

Abstract

The paper presents the results of development of a neutralizer-free high-frequency ion thruster for university nanosatellite propulsion systems which allow it to perform orbit correction tasks. The application of high-frequency ion thruster technologies allows the self-neutralization mode and is relevant for the development of engines for CubeSat format small satellites where the size and weight of the propulsion system must be as minimal as possible. A pair of shapes of neutralizer-free high-frequency ion thrusters with different accelerating region geometries are proposed. The analysis of plasma flow and the charged particles acceleration was carried out. The trajectory and acceleration of a quasi-neutral plasma flow was calculated for crossed electric and magnetic fields. The cyclotron resonance model was applied for the quasi-neutral plasma flow acceleration in an ambipolar field. The coaxial structure of the ion thruster model is discussed. Preliminary estimate of the performance of the propulsion system prototype was carried out for a pulsed operation mode. Additionally, the energy budget of a high-frequency ion thruster prototype was calculated.