New push system for mini satellites

Cubesats are a major part of mini satellites. Unlike normal satellites weighing up to several tons, cubesat is just a small box of about 4 inches (10.16cm) and weighs about 1.36kg. It is really attractive for space scientists because they are small enough to be able to attach to large space ships besides operating independently, flying in formation or being assembled together to create a larger satellite.

The only problem with cubesat is the limited space within it, so installing a rocket is very difficult. Using nano engines will be an alternative but that increases the payload of satellites.

The MIT team led by aeronautics professor Paulo Lozano solved this problem by developing a rocket that has the size and shape of a cube. The top of it is made up of 500 small pieces, each with an attached propulsion. The purpose of this is to simplify the design to save space and reduce weight. These push valves are not only small but also designed very simply and easily.

Each thrust valve consists of a fuel storage unit at the bottom of the cube, above it is a porous metal layer. The pipes will connect together to form a continuous network that continues to the upper layer. These 500 paths will create a push system. The top is a gold disc, which acts as the cathode. When it is charged, the fuel will drop in the duct, forming ions and pushing it out at high speed to create thrust.

To test push valves, the MIT team used a winding machine. They mount the thruster on a satellite, suspended in space using a magnet and then put it in a vacuum chamber. The thrust of the engine is not much - there are only about 50 micronewtons (0.037 ft-lbs), but for a small satellite it is free to control that trajectory change.

In the hope that these propulsion engines will be used to lead the cubesat into space, the team is actively working to improve engine performance. On the other hand, they also noted that the increase in voltage could create disproportionate force in the thrust, which meant that cubesat could be sent to predetermined locations. In addition, Professor Lozano also believed that engines could be put together to be used for large satellites in the future.

Reference: Gizmag