Measurement system for the parameters of satellite propulsion

Abstract

Within the STRAuSS (Advanced Solar Thermal Propulsion System for Increasing of Satellite Operational Life) project to investigate the extension of a satellite operation period, a new valve type and a new type of nozzle were designed. Extending the period of operation of the satellite propulsion is an important factor for increasing its activity period and reducing the production and launch costs. To measure the force generated when releasing propellant gas from the satellite reservoir, a dynamic fine-scale force measurement system has been designed. This system also measures experiment parameters such as: simulated solar radiation size, 4 key temperature and nozzle pressure. The system controls the action of the propellant gas release valve and the activation of lamps that simulate solar radiation from outer space. The system is based on acquisition modules connected to a touch panel computer. Establishing the measurement system and its calibration was an essential step in performing the experiments within the STRAuSS project.

Keywords

• thermal propulsion
• satellite operational life
• measurement system
• force measurement