Application of an advanced Micro-Propulsion System to the DelFFi Formation-Flying Demonstration within the QB50 Mission

Paper number

IAC-12,C4,6,2,x15340

Author

Dr. Angelo Cervone, Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), The Netherlands

Coauthor

Mr. Barry Zandbergen, Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), The Netherlands

Coauthor

Dr. Jian Guo, Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), The Netherlands

Coauthor

Prof. Eberhard Gill, Delft University of Technology, The Netherlands

Coauthor

Mr. Wolter Wieling, Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), The Netherlands

Coauthor

Ms. Flavia Tata Nardini, TNO Defence, Security & Safety, The Netherlands

Coauthor

Mr. Coen Schuurbiers, TNO Defence, Security & Safety, The Netherlands

Year

2012

Abstract

In the proposed paper, an advanced T3 micro-propulsion system will be considered to propel the twin DelFFi satellites developed by Delft University of Technology. 

The DelFFi project is a formation flying technology demonstration which will take place in the framework of the QB50 program, an international mission incorporating a network of 50 CubeSats in Low-Earth orbits for lower thermosphere and re-entry research. The proposed contribution from  Delft University of Technology is represented by two triple-unit CubeSats based on the design of the Delfi-n3Xt satellite (scheduled for launch in September 2012). These twin satellites will be kept in an along-track formation, and an on-board propulsion system will be used to ensure separation between the two satellites and maintain a predetermined distance by counteracting drifting. 

The T3$\mu$PS is a cold gas micro-propulsion system developed by TNO, Delft University of Technology and University of Twente, capable to provide a predefined thrust level in a range from 1 to 10 mN. The system includes cool gas generators operating with nitrogen stored in solid phase, a plenum tank, a thruster valve and a micro-nozzle; its total mass (including mechanical and electrical interfaces) is less than 140 g. In-flight qualification of the T3$\mu$PS will take place on board of the Delfi-n3Xt satellite. 

The paper will evaluate various existing micro-propulsion systems for their capability to be used in the DelFFi technology demonstration mission, and a detailed trade-off between several potential candidates will be presented and discussed. In particular an advanced T3 propulsion system including a MEMS micro-resistojet will be illustrated, showing that it is capable to meet the requirements relative to drag control for relative formation flying and controlled re-entry of the twin DelFFi satellites while adhering to the mission mass, volume and power constraints. Conclusions will be drawn, including a general Road Map for the future development and qualification activities of the proposed propulsion systems.

Abstract document

IAC-12,C4,6,2,x15340.brief.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-12,C4,6,2,x15340.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

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