Recent development of intake devices for atmosphere-breathing electric propulsion system

Abstract

Increasing interest in development of very low Earth orbit (VLEO) has attracted more and more researchers to study atmosphere-breathing electric propulsion (ABEP) system in past several decades. This system can use rarefied atmospheric particles as the propellant of electric thrusters, and maintain a long lifetime mission without carrying any propellant from ground. As the key component of system, intake device can realize the collection and compression of atmospheric particles within limited frontal area, which determines the performance of whole ABEP system. This review summarizes the previous studies to develop intake devices, evaluates the corresponding performance and understands the model involved, including atmosphere model, flow physic model and so on. In addition, several continued researches for intake device are also presented, including ground experiment technologies, intake surface material development, space compressor and liquefaction technology. Wherever possible, comments have been provided to provide useful reference to researchers engaged in intake device for ABEP system.