Micro-Propulsion Systems and its Applications

The advancement in technologies of spacecrafts such as artificial satellites of various scaled sizes has required the need for appropriate propulsion systems. The use of Propulsion systems for accurate and precise control of the thrust output, requires the use of Micro-propulsion systems. Applications such as altitude control and deep space maneuverability require low thrust and minimum impulse bit performance. Micro-Propulsion systems give, milli or micro Newton thrust accuracies. They can be used for the correction of offsetting torques, which can affect satellites orbiting lower altitudes caused due to aerodynamic drag present in the outer atmosphere. They also play a vital role in offsetting the disturbances caused by solar pressure on large inflatable spacecrafts. In the following paper, we will mainly discuss the applications of Micro-Propulsion systems in Micro and Nano-spacecrafts giving emphasis to MEMS and hybrid technologies. Due to their constrained size and stringent propulsion requirements new technologies such as MEMS devices and hybrid technologies will be used for these precision thrust requirements. With the advancement in Micromachining we are able to create precise microstructures such as Micro- valves and Micro-tubings which will be used in the Micro-thruster systems. Micro ion engines and vaporizing liquid micro thrusters are few of the systems which will be discussed which use MEMS technology in their thrusters. The use of MEMS increases the performance and decreases the size of the thrusters. Hybrid technologies seek to improve the performance of the various existing technologies by modifying and integrating them with more sustainable sources. This allows us to try previously unexplored designs of thrusters. Propulsion systems such as Vacuum arc ion thrusters and field emission electric propulsion are more efficient than most other conventional propulsion systems, which allows it to be used in a wide range of applications. Finally we will also be addressing the cost effectiveness and economic viability of the use of such systems in present and future space exploration missions.