The satellite is propelled by the aspirated electric propulsion system.
According to a recent report by U.S. Space Network, the European Space Agency has for the first time tested a new type of aspirated electric propeller that can collect atmospheric molecules and use it as an alternative to on-board propellants. It is expected that the LEO satellites will remain in space for almost indefinite time. , It will also make future Mars exploration easier.
Satellites need to stay in space to move or move. In general, satellites use rocket-like chemical propulsion devices, but electric propulsors are becoming more popular because they are more efficient. However, current electric propulsion systems still use propellants (such as helium). Therefore, the satellite's standby time is limited by the amount of propellant carried, while the satellite can carry limited propellant. And to offset atmospheric resistance, satellites operating within a few hundred kilometers from the Earth’s surface consume more propellant.
But now, ESA has developed a new type of electric propulsion system that can extract air molecules from the top of the Earth's atmosphere, compress these molecules to make it into a plasma, and apply an electric field (electricity can be obtained from solar panels) can accelerate plasma flow , which provides thrust for the satellites, which allows the satellites to operate for a very long time at very low altitude orbit around the earth.
The project leader Luis Walport explained that when satellite power is insufficient, enough air can be extracted in low earth orbit to pressurize satellites and other spacecraft on a regular basis to ensure that the satellites will not be affected by the fuel consumption. Gravity crashes and can fly at the lowest orbital altitude. Of course, this system can also work on the outer edge of the Martian atmosphere, collecting carbon dioxide molecules there as 'fuel'.
Polish and Italian scientists simulated a 200-km altitude environment in a vacuum chamber and successfully tested the technology. Walter said: 'We are now considering potential applications for this technology.'
He said that because it can only operate in a vacuum or near-vacuum environment, the working height of the suction propeller can be as low as 160 kilometers. Walter said: 'Using air as a propellant opens up new ground for near-Earth space missions. These tasks can be used for high-resolution imaging, studying changes in the top of the atmosphere, etc. '
