Ultra Compact Green Monopropellant Propulsion for CubeSats

ABSTRACT: Busek proposes to develop an ultra compact CubeSat propulsion system utilizing non-toxic, green monopropellant. The system will occupy 1/2U volume and the tuna can protrusion space made available by a 3U CubeSat launchers ejector spring. Key components of this concept include an innovative micro thruster based on Buseks groundbreaking monopropellant catalyst technology, a material-compatible propellant tank, and a highly miniaturized feed system. The proposed system will provide total impulse on the order of 580N-sec, which will give a 3U/4kg CubeSat approximately 150m/s of delta-V maneuverability. The thruster and the feed system are expected to require less than 10W power to operate. Phase I will focus on risk reduction efforts by developing critical components such as the micro thruster and the high-capacity tank. Phase II will focus on advancing the system design and complete hardware development, which will include full characterization and life testing of the micro thruster. BENEFIT: A 1/2U green monopropellant system with high total impulse (>500N-sec) is unique within the industry and of significant interest to DoD, civil, and commercial customers alike. In the CubeSat propulsion world, the proposed micro thruster has a niche as it can provide smooth and steady thrust, whereas other similar systems on the market may be too powerful for CubeSats to steer. Current CubeSats situated in LEO have useful life anywhere between 3 and 6 months; using the proposed propulsion system for drag makeup can potentially extend mission life to well beyond 12 months. Prolonged life of assets in orbit will significantly alter the economics of any space-centric entity, whether public or private. The non-toxic nature of the propellant further reduces CubeSat costs associated with development, integration and launch preparation.