SITAEL High-Power Electric Propulsion Systems are based on the qualification model of the 5 kW (HT5k) and engineering qualification model of the 20 kW (HT20k) Hall Effect Thrusters. By now both systems have reached a high technology readiness level. The development of High-Power Electric Propulsion Systems is ongoing at SITAEL in the framework of several European Commission, European Space Agency and Italian Space Agency programs as well as projects from private customers and internally funded activities. This paper summarizes the current status of the HT5k and HT20k thrusters’ development and the progress achieved within the associated programs. The paper focuses on the key results obtained in years 2023-2024. The review of the HT5k and HT20k operation with Xe, Ke and Ar is presented including data acquired with Laser Induced Fluorescence diagnostics.
SITAEL HT5k and HT20k Propulsion Systems Readiness
Michele Cardelli;Donatella Ciampini
2024-01-01
Abstract
SITAEL High-Power Electric Propulsion Systems are based on the qualification model of the 5 kW (HT5k) and engineering qualification model of the 20 kW (HT20k) Hall Effect Thrusters. By now both systems have reached a high technology readiness level. The development of High-Power Electric Propulsion Systems is ongoing at SITAEL in the framework of several European Commission, European Space Agency and Italian Space Agency programs as well as projects from private customers and internally funded activities. This paper summarizes the current status of the HT5k and HT20k thrusters’ development and the progress achieved within the associated programs. The paper focuses on the key results obtained in years 2023-2024. The review of the HT5k and HT20k operation with Xe, Ke and Ar is presented including data acquired with Laser Induced Fluorescence diagnostics.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
