NASA’s new electric propulsion technology is designed to facilitate planetary exploration missions using small spacecraft. Researchers at NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) have created a small spacecraft electric propulsion system called the NASA-H71M sub-kilowatt Hall-effect thruster.
The NASA-H71M thruster is a low-power version of the popular BPT-4000 Hall-effect thruster used on larger spacecraft. It is designed to provide cost-effective and efficient propulsion for small satellites and interplanetary cubesats. The thruster’s key features include:
Compact Design
The NASA-H71M thruster has a compact and lightweight design, making it well-suited for small spacecraft. It measures only 10 cm in diameter and weighs less than 1 kg, allowing for easy integration into small satellite platforms.
High Efficiency
The thruster achieves a high propulsive efficiency of up to 50%, which is critical for maximizing the performance and mission capabilities of small spacecraft. This efficiency is comparable to larger Hall-effect thrusters used on more substantial platforms.
Long Lifetime
The NASA-H71M thruster is designed for a long operational lifetime, enabling extended mission durations for small spacecraft. The thruster can operate for over 3,000 hours, providing ample propulsion for diverse planetary exploration missions.
Versatile Applications
The NASA-H71M thruster can be used for a variety of applications, including station keeping, orbit raising, and precision attitude control for small satellites and interplanetary cubesats. Its versatility makes it a valuable asset for the growing small spacecraft industry.
