Paper Session III-A - On-Orbit Characterization of Electric Propulsion in Leo Satellites

Because of the current high cost for space experiments on large and small space qualified platforms, alternate methods of space characterization must be explored. Utilizing commercial or military satellites as testbeds for subsystems is a potential platform for small devices. Electric propulsion is a viable and upcoming subsystem that is of high interest to planetary mission engineers as well as commercial satellite developers. The cost of space demonstration, and the risk associated with nonspace tested components, is a major driver in the reluctant admittance into the satellite and space experiment world for electric propulsion. It is proposed that by incorporating small lightweight electric propulsion devices onto small satellites as external or bolt-on experiments, an increase in the number of flight opportunities can occur. Specific problems that will be addressed are spacecraft body interaction, contamination effects, thermal interface problems, power conditioning control electronics, and propulsion feed system interfaces