Microthrusters and Microturbines Technologies and Prototypes: a Roadmap for Nanosatellites Propulsion and Power

The requirements for micropropulsion systems on nano and micro satellites have been analyzed and a detailed building block list has been proposed. The Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of the necessary subgroups and components like micronozzle, microturbines or microvalves has been assessed based on literature and components available on the market. A Cold-Gas microthruster capable of thrust in the range of 100 microN to 1 mN have been designed and prototyped. An application of such Cold-Gas system will be described for the microsatellite (ALMASAT) developed by the University of Bologna. A Microturbine prototype in course of development and capable of few Watt of power will be presented and the related technology and application potential will be discussed. International roadmaps will be presented and updated in relation to an optimized benefit/effort development path