The next revolution in space will be driven by high-power electric propulsion (EP) technology. SUPREME aims to lead this revolution within EP, essential for sustainable progress in areas like On-Orbit Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacture (OSAM), in-space cloud computing, and space debris mitigation. However, current EP technologies face challenges in cost-effectiveness, sustainability, and performance as well as performance variability at high power levels. In Electric Propulsion technology, steady state AF-MPD thrusters are known for their efficiency, throttle-ability, propellant flexibility and scalability. and remarkable thrust levels. Research into their development has been ongoing since the 1960s. However, AF-MPD technology remained at low TRL due to challenges in thruster lifetime and flight readiness posed by conventional magnets. Through the adoption of High-Temperature Superconductors (HTS), the limitation of conventional electromagnets can be mitigated, and for thruster lifetime we have developed the new and better multi-channel hollow cathodes. Leveraging HTS coils enables AF-MPD to achieve the necessary high magnetic fields in a compact and lightweight system, thus advancing it towards flight feasibility. A radiatively cooled anode, eliminating active cooling, completes the image.
The SUPREME approach represents a significant milestone in European space technology by aiming to develop the first prototype EP system incorporating High-Temperature Superconductors (HTS). Building upon the advancements of the EU MEESST project, which successfully utilizes HTS coils for S/C re-entry shielding, SUPREME seeks to integrate HTS into AF-MPD thrusters. By developing, manufacturing, and testing a 5 kW AF-MPD thruster, SUPREME aims to showcase the integration of HTS coils. Additionally, the project will pioneer the development of a customized Power Processing Unit (PPU) for AF-MPD discharges, leveraging flight-qualified HET PPUs.
The method follows a structured space system development approach, aimed at advancing the prototype's design while effectively tracking progress through key milestones, staring with an initial system requirements study to establish a common baseline, followed by detailed design work on the AFM, a novel element and by integration of HTS coil technology. These concurrent activities are geared towards a unified CDR and SRR for final prototype validation before integration and testing.
