Thruster for the Advancement of Low-temperature Operation in Space (TALOS)

The Thruster for Advancement of Low-Temperature Operations in Space (TALOS) Project seeks to develop and commercialize two thrusters: (1) Axial and (2) Attitude Control System (ACS) thrusters. Both thrusters use MonoMethylHydrazine (MMH) and Mixed Oxides of Nitrogen (MON)-25%, for Deep Space and In-Space Missions. TALOS thrusters are capable of low operating temperatures and state-of-the-art pulse-mode operation. This technology fills key agency technology gaps and will enable NASA's future envisioned deep space missions for exploring the secrets of the universe for the benefit of all. The Axial thrusters progressed from TRL 4 to 5 and the ACS thrusters progressed from TRL 3 to 6.

Science mission studies require spacecraft propulsion systems that are high-performance, lightweight, and compact. Highly matured technology and low-cost, short development time of the propulsion system are also very desirable. The TALOS thruster is being developed to meet these needs. The overall goal of this game changing technology project is to develop the TALOS thrusters for space flight and for inclusion in science and explora­tion missions.

Most exploration missions are constrained by mass, power and cost. As major propul­sion components, thrusters are identified as high-risk, long-lead development items. NASA spacecraft primarily rely on 1960s' heritage in-space thruster designs and opportunities exist for reducing size, weight, power, and cost through the utilization of modern materials and advanced manufacturing techniques.

Advancements in MON-25/MMH hypergolic bipropellant thrusters represent a promising avenue for addressing these deficiencies with tremendous mission enhancing benefits. TALOS is lighter and costs less than currently available thrusters in comparable thrust classes. Because MON-25 propellants oper­ate at lower temperatures, less power is needed for propellant conditioning for in-space propulsion applications, especially long dura­tion and/or deep-space missions. Reduced power results in reduced mass for batteries and solar panels and potentially increased mass for science.

The TALOS thrusters are designed to address an agency need for a domestic, adaptable thruster for spacecraft main propulsion, reaction control systems, and lander descent/ascent that has pulse-mode capability and low propellant temperature operation.

Science mission studies require spacecraft propulsion systems that are high-performance, lightweight, and compact. Highly matured technology and low-cost, short development time of the propulsion system are also very desirable. The TALOS thruster is being developed to meet these needs. The overall goal of this game changing technology project is to develop the TALOS thrusters for space flight and for inclusion in science and explora­tion missions.

Most exploration missions are constrained by mass, power and cost. As major propul­sion components, thrusters are identified as high-risk, long-lead development items. NASA spacecraft primarily rely on 1960s' heritage in-space thruster designs and opportunities exist for reducing size, weight, power, and cost through the utilization of modern materials and advanced manufacturing techniques.

Advancements in MON-25/MMH hypergolic bipropellant thrusters represent a promising avenue for addressing these deficiencies with tremendous mission enhancing benefits. TALOS is lighter and costs less than currently available thrusters in comparable thrust classes. Because MON-25 propellants oper­ate at lower temperatures, less power is needed for propellant conditioning for in-space propulsion applications, especially long dura­tion and/or deep-space missions. Reduced power results in reduced mass for batteries and solar panels and potentially increased mass for science.

The TALOS thrusters are designed to answer an agency need for a domestic, adaptable thruster for spacecraft main propulsion, reaction control systems, and lander descent/ascent that has pulse-mode capability and low propellant temperature operation.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 5) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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