New Propulsion Method for Low-Cost Microsatellites
Summary
When a picosatellite needs to make a position adjustment while in orbit, a circuit underneath the sodium azide will heat to 275°C, at which point the chemical releases a burst of nitrogen gas enough to execute a maneuver.A single malfunction during transit could therefore destroy dozens of spacecraft, making safe propulsion a requirement.To meet these safety requirements, Kyle developed a 1cm square thruster that includes a layer of solid state sodium azide.When a picosatellite needs to make a position adjustment while in orbit, a circuit underneath the sodium azide will heat to 275°C, at which point the chemical releases a burst of nitrogen gas enough to execute a maneuver.Incorporating the latest developments in micro-circuitry, revolutionary propellants, and even off-the-shelf consumer electronics, these devices can be fabricated and launched for a fraction of the cost of a traditional satellite.Despite the name, many miniaturized satellites are not necessarily “small,” says Kyle, referring to so-called microsatellites about the size of a washing machine.This is accomplished through a broad-based Core Curriculum of applied sciences, engineering sciences, design, management, and the humanities, coupled with a long-standing honor system.Learn more: visit www.stevens.edu/ses/me### Contact Information Stevens Institute of Technology Christine del Rosario 201-216-5561 http://buzz.stevens.edu/index.php/kyle-godin-microsatellite-low-cost-solid-state-thruster Click here to view the list of recent Press Releases from Stevens Institute of Technology Promote Your Business Press Release Pricing Email this page to a friend