Development of a Bi-Directional Wave Plasma Thruster for Small Satellites

Abstract

Modern space missions need in propulsive forces in multiple directions. However, at the modern state of the art propulsion systems, propulsion systems predominantly have only a single thrust direction. The inability of thrusters to create propulsive forces in multiple directions results in the low maneuverability of satellites that effect on the efficiency of performing space missions or limit the space missions' maneuvers. Nevertheless, in 2020, the Russian scientist Andrei Shumeiko proposed and started the development of the first generation of multidirectional propulsion systems. One of the proposed thrusters is the bi-directional wave plasma thruster. The thruster can generate propulsive forces at least in two directions. The thruster is considered to be used onboard small spacecraft to increase the maneuverability. In this work, the development of the bi-directional wave plasma thruster is presented and discussed.

Date of Award	May 2022
Original language	American English