Introduction

As the space industry continues to expand, innovative propulsion systems are crucial for ensuring the responsible operation of micro and nanosatellites. Champaign-Urbana Aerospace (CUA) has made significant strides with the development of advanced micropropulsion technologies that promise to redefine how satellites navigate and maintain their presence in orbit.

Key Features of Micropropulsion Systems

These cutting-edge micropropulsion systems offer a wide array of capabilities tailored to meet the diverse needs of satellite manufacturers. Key features include:

- **Collision Avoidance**: Vital for protecting both satellites and existing space stations.

- **Orbital Maneuvers**: Capable of raising or lowering orbits as needed.

- **Inclination Adjustments**: Allowing satellites to change orbits effectively.

- **Drag Compensation**: Ensuring satellites remain in their intended paths.

- **End-of-Life Deorbiting**: Facilitating safe disposal of satellites to combat space debris.

With the rising concern over space debris, known as the 'Kessler Syndrome,' CUA's technologies aim to mitigate the risk of collision in increasingly crowded outer-space environments. The U.S. Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) new deorbiting regulations mandate that satellites be safely removed from orbit within five years, a requirement that CUA’s systems are designed to fulfill efficiently.

Technology Highlights

1. **Fibre-fed Pulsed Plasma Thruster (FPPT)**: This revolutionary propulsion system vaporizes Teflon and uses high-energy pulses to produce thrust with a specific impulse exceeding 3500 seconds. Not only is it cost-effective, but it also eliminates the need for pressurized tanks, making it a compelling option for extended orbital operations and even active debris removal.

2. **Monofilament Vaporization Propulsion (MVP)**: Utilizing 3D printing techniques, the MVP system leverages a low-power resistojet to create electrothermal thrust. With a total impulse of 265 N-s from a compact design, it's an accessible solution for collision avoidance and deorbiting maneuvers, while keeping costs low.

3. **Cubesat High Impulse Propulsion System (CHIPS)**: This versatile and compact propulsion solution integrates a main thruster with a three-axis attitude control system, powered by non-toxic, inert propellants. It promises high efficiency and customizable mission profiles with minimal risk.

4. **Monopropellant Propulsion Unit for Cubesats (MPUC)**: CUA has engineered a high-thrust option using a safe ethanol and hydrogen peroxide mixture, resulting in a non-detonable propulsion system with substantial advantages over traditional monopropellants like hydrazine.

5. **Cycle Automated Mass Flow (CAMFlow) Technology**: Introducing a revolutionary flow-control system for electric propulsion, CAMFlow ensures reliable operation while minimizing complexity and cost. It exhibits exceptional reliability and is suited for small Hall-effect or gridded-ion systems.

Exciting Future Developments

NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate is supporting CUA's Dual Propulsion Experiment (DUPLEX) CubeSat—an ambitious project that will demonstrate these micropropulsion systems in flight. Slated for launch in the first half of 2025, DUPLEX seeks to validate FPPT and MVP technologies and enhance their readiness for commercial application.

As CUA's micropropulsion systems prepare to revolutionize satellite technology, they hold the promise of a future where satellites can operate efficiently, maneuver safely, and contribute to a sustainable orbital environment. With these advanced options, the satellite industry can effectively address the mounting challenge of space debris while maintaining seamless space operations. Stay tuned—this is just the beginning!