Modular, Scalable Propulsion Module for ESPA-Based Satellite Dispensing Systems

Many of the future satellites to be launched on EELVs do not fully use the volume and mass capabilities of the system. The ESPA ring takes advantage of performance margins to provide launch accommodation for multiple micro satellites as secondary payloads. This approach limits the launch vehicle's flexibility to provide secondaries their desired orbits, since other launch vehicle constraints can impose strict limits on orbital repositioning capabilities beyond the orbit injection location of the primary payload which often is not ideal for the secondary payloads. Microsat Systems, Inc. (MSI) of Littleton, CO proposes creation of an ESPA On-Orbit Maneuvering System (EOMS) to enable the standard ESPA Ring with propulsive capability to offer secondary spacecraft the opportunity to meet their desired orbital parameters or to act as a free-flyer platform to host additional payloads. MSI’s baseline concept for the EOMS maximizes utility from the DSX program by leveraging components and design for this application. The components selected provide the necessary logical control, power, telecommunications and propulsion for 1000 m/sec delta V capability, depending upon the final configuration. Use of the design architecture from DSX and readily available components allows the EOMS to be quickly fabricated and brought to service.