Rocket scientists have long faced a dilemma in propulsion technologies: while chemical rockets deliver significant thrust, they consume fuel rapidly, limiting their operational duration. In contrast, electric propulsion systems can operate for extended periods but provide much lower thrust. A recent study published in the Journal of Propulsion and Power by researchers at MIT introduces a hybrid propulsion system that merges these two approaches, featuring an electrospray thruster that employs a new type of chemical rocket propellant.
Innovative Propellant Development
The key to this new propulsion technology lies in a green propellant known as the Advanced Spacecraft Energetic Non-Toxic propellant (ASCENT), previously referred to as AF-M315E. This propellant is designed to reduce the hazards associated with traditional rocket fuels like hydrazine, which is toxic and requires extensive safety precautions during handling. ASCENT not only minimizes these risks but also offers a 50% increase in specific impulse compared to hydrazine. This propellant was successfully tested during the Green Propellant Infusion Mission (GPIM) in 2019.
Electrospray Thrusters and Testing Methodology
Another notable feature of ASCENT is its ionic liquid nature, making it suitable for use in electrospray thrusters. These thrusters operate by extracting charged ions from a liquid and expelling them to generate thrust, rather than burning fuel. To evaluate the performance of ASCENT within their electrospray thrusters, the MIT researchers constructed a custom test bed that simulated outer space conditions using a vacuum chamber and magnetic levitation. They loaded 1 gram of ASCENT into a small reservoir connected to the thruster and conducted experiments that demonstrated thrust generation for up to 100 hours.
Future Applications and Upcoming Missions
This innovative propulsion system could enable a CubeSat to utilize its electrospray thruster for efficient navigation towards distant targets like Mars or Jupiter. Upon nearing its destination, the CubeSat could switch to its chemical thruster for rapid trajectory adjustments or hazard avoidance. Such capabilities could significantly expand the mission profiles for CubeSats.
The MIT team has already delivered four of these thrusters to NASA for the upcoming Green Propulsion Dual Mode (GPDM) mission, scheduled for launch in November. This mission will deploy a 6U CubeSat equipped with both propulsion types, utilizing a single fuel tank filled with ASCENT. If successful, this demonstration could pave the way for future CubeSat missions, potentially leading to swarms of hybrid thruster satellites exploring various celestial bodies.
This article was produced by NeonPulse.today using human and AI-assisted editorial processes, based on publicly available information. Content may be edited for clarity and style.
