SMART1 Electric Propulsion Operations

Abstract

The SMART-1 spacecraft is the first of the European Space Agency's Small Missions for Advanced Research in Technology. SMART-1's primary mission goal is to demonstrate Solar Electric Primary Propulsion by orbit raising from Geostationary Transfer Orbit to the Moon. SMART-1 was launched in September 2003, as an auxiliary passenger on Ariane 5. After separation from the launch vehicle, the European Space Operations Centre assumed control of the spacecraft, preparing, then initiating, the orbit raising phase. At the time of writing, SMART-1 has been orbit raising for a period of seven months. This paper presents a summary of the operational experience to date, with particular emphasis on the Electric Propulsion Subsystem. The various mission phases already executed are described. Nominal operational tasks are explained along with the impact and recovery of non-nominal events. The operational impact of flying through the radiation belts is also discussed, with its effect on the Solar Arrays and the ability of the Electric Propulsion system to be used at variable power levels.