Small spacecraft CubeSat propulsion systems are now in high demand. There are several reasons why this need has grown in recent years. These systems adjust and maintain orbits, maneuver around other objects and avoid collisions, manage constellations, and fast-track de-orbiting processes without cluttering the space environment even further.
The water-powered CubeSat propulsion system is a breakthrough technology intended to improve the capability and sustainability of space missions. These systems employ water as fuel, turning it into propellant. Hence, they become safer, more affordable, and eco-friendly.
Low-pressure water as the main propellant
The fuel type utilized in CubeSat propulsion systems can bear major safety implications. Conventional fuels have such risks as toxicity, flammability, and instability. Therefore, these fuels require higher safety measures leading to increased mission costs.
Water is a green and affordable propellant, it is nontoxic and stable. On top of that, water is much easier to handle and safer to carry on a spacecraft.
CubeSats and small satellites are typically launched into space as secondary payloads. They are often carried alongside larger payloads. Regular rocket fuels for CubeSat propulsion systems raise mission risks by jeopardizing other payloads and launch vehicles. Thus, water becomes the best type of fuel to minimize these risks while providing a safe, reliable, and efficient propulsion option for CubeSats, ensuring compatibility with shared launch environments.
Common use-cases
Water-powered CubeSat propulsion systems possess significantly enhanced functionality. Consequently, they can solve several key problems:
- Reaching the Correct Orbit: The propulsion system aids a satellite in navigating to its exact orbit once it is launched into space.
- Adjusting the Orbit: The atmosphere drags the satellite down when it is in low Earth orbit (LEO). Over time, this results in slowing down and lowering the altitude. The propulsion system facilitates its return to orbit.
- Managing Satellite Constellations: When multiple satellites need to work together, they must be oriented and spaced at a certain distance from one another. They can retain and modify their layout due to the propulsion system.
- De-orbiting: Since space debris is becoming a bigger issue, it is essential to prepare the satellite for end-of-life disposal before launching it. A propulsion system allows a small satellite to safely leave the orbit and proceed to a predetermined location or burn up in the atmosphere.
CubeSat propulsion systems powered with water transform the modern approach to satellite mobility and sustainability. They offer safe, cost-efficient, and environmentally responsible solutions to enable precise orbit adjustments, maintain satellite positioning, support constellation coordination, and ensure end-of-life de-orbiting.
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