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MIT SPL delivers the Scalable ion Electrospray Propulsion System (S-iEPS) for CubeSats to NASA

The Space Propulsion Laboratory (SPL) at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has delivered three fully integrated S-iEPS units to NASA today. The S-iEPS is a highly efficient compact thruster system for nano-satellites, which will enable challenging missions even for the small, but increasingly popular, 1-liter, 1-kilogram Cubesats. The S-iEPS features eight MEMS-based ion emitter arrays, containing thousands of microtips packed in 8 square centimeters of active emission area. With a total power consumption of less than 1.5 watts, the propulsion system delivers a thrust of 100 microNewtons at a specific impulse of 1200 seconds, which is sufficient to provide ample maneuverability to small satellites. The thrusters feature non-reactive ionic salt propellants and a design without moving parts or pressurization, relying on capillary forces alone. Each propulsion system weighs about 100 grams and fits in a 9 x 9.6 x 2.1 cm envelope (about 0.2U), including propellant and power and control electronics.

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