Initial development of a Gas-Fed Pulsed Plasma Thruster for Nano and Pico Satellites

Abstract

The application of electric propulsion systems in CubeSats can increase lifetime and diversity of possible missions, with improved capabilities in orbital maneuvers. In this work, a control and power electronics circuit for a gas-fed pulsed plasma thruster (GFPPT) was developed, constructed and tested, considering restrictions in size, weight, and power availability of a CubeSat. This proof of concept made use of 3D printing technology for rapid prototyping, and its initial testing was done in an atmospheric environment.