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Completed TRL 5 (started at 5, targeting 5)
The Impulse Control System (ICS) is a high specific impulse (Isp), low-thrust electric propulsion that is suitable for small satellite attitude control, precision orbit control, constellation formation management, and extended low-thrust maneuvers. ICS was assembled and fully integrated into a petitSat, a CubeSat that will be launched October 2022. The goals for the FY23 IRAD is to prepare for the mission demonstration by determine a flight test procedure utilizing spacecraft Attitude Control Systems (ACS) to determine actuator performance.
Although SmallSat/CubeSat electric propulsion systems exist in industry and academia, many are cost-prohibitive and/or not suitable for related GSFC science-class (precision orbit control, extended low-thrust maneuvers) missions. Table 1 provides ICS comparison to available products. Low cost, high performing (Isp and thrust precision), reliable micro-propulsion systems that can be implemented are not currently available commercially. The ICS has following advantages over other small satellite propulsion technologies:
• Low exhaust plume contamination risk due to high plasma exhaust velocity.
• Low power consumption, self-generation of required high voltage pulse.
• Secondary payload compatible (propellant is inert, no pressure vessels).
• Flexible thrust levels (by varying pulse frequency) and impulse bit control (by varying arc current and duration.)
• Scalable (point or array configurations.)
• Distributive system that allows flexible actuator placement.
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