The exponential increase in the number of microsatellite launches over the past decade has generated a research gap within the realm of satellite propulsion, needed to maintain the orbit of such satellites and hence increase their lifetime. The research towards the miniaturisatio
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The exponential increase in the number of microsatellite launches over the past decade has generated a research gap within the realm of satellite propulsion, needed to maintain the orbit of such satellites and hence increase their lifetime. The research towards the miniaturisation of propulsion systems has hence steadily gained traction within universities and other educational institutions. With this in mind, in collaboration with the Else Kooi Laboratory (EKL), the TU Delft is developing a novel resistojet thruster with integrated Titanium heaters based on Micro-Electromechanical Systems (MEMS) technology, called the Low Pressure Micro-Resistojet (LPM). Using their resistance, the newly fabricated thruster chips were characterised as temperature sensors for the range of 40-140 C. A new interface was designed and manufactured out of Teflon, allowing for the necessary mechanical and electrical connections to the thruster and adhering to Delfi-PQ system requirements. A maximum thrust of 0.37 mN was found during preliminary testing.
