The ion drive technology plays a crucial role in maintaining a clean space environment. With the increasing number of satellites, both larger and smaller ones, Earth’s orbit is becoming more crowded. Inactive satellites and space debris pose a serious challenge as they can threaten other objects in orbit.
In response to this problem, the European Space Agency (ESA) has developed the ATHENA (Adaptable THruster based on Electrospray powered by Nanotechnology) project, which aims to build a miniature ion drive for nanosatellites.
The ATHENA propulsion is based on electrospray, which is a stream of ions released from a small emitter and accelerated to a speed of 20 km/s through the electric potential difference between the emitter and the extractor.
The entire propulsion system, including electronics, fuel tank, ion emitter, and extractor, fits in the palm of a hand. In the accompanying image, we see seven emitters, each with 500 microscopic channels ending in openings through which the fuel is expelled.
Ion drive technology is constantly being improved, and ESA has announced that the first miniature ion engine is capable of operating for over 400 hours. This is a significant operating time considering that satellite maneuvers typically last for shorter durations.
Ion thrusters have the potential to be used in nanosatellites of various sizes, both individual and in groups. Next year, there are plans to test the new technology in space, although it is not yet known which satellite will be the first to use this propulsion system.
Sources:
– European Space Agency (ESA)
– Own reporting
The source of the article is from the blog scimag.news