Plasma Space Propulsion for Nanosatellite Orbit Control and Complex Constellation Formation

Abstract

Great interests in constellations of micro and nanosatellite missions are growing at an unprecedented pace nowadays. Orbit maintenance, orbiting error correction, satellite insertion, attitude control, orbital transfers and deorbiting of satellite are becoming the crucial factors for any space mission. Owing to the high specific impulse of the acceleration ions, the use of plasma electric propulsion can efficiently reduce the amount of propellant needed to fulfill a mission, leading to a significant reduction of the mass of the satellite payload.