Tandem Electrodeless Plasma Thrusters for Universal and Versatile in-Space Propulsion

Descripción del proyecto

Impulsar el futuro de los viajes espaciales

A medida que las misiones espaciales se vuelven más ambiciosas, la necesidad de sistemas de propulsión flexibles y eficientes nunca ha sido mayor. En este contexto, el proyecto NEPTUNE, financiado por el Consejo Europeo de Investigación, tiene por objeto probar el concepto de propulsor de plasma en tándem de arco magnético (TAM). A diferencia de los motores tradicionales, el TAM utiliza fuentes de plasma emparejadas sin electrodos y un campo magnético que las conecta para crear y expandir el plasma. La configuración tiene un dipolo magnético cero, lo que simplifica su integración en las naves espaciales. El TAM es compatible con múltiples tipos de gases, lo que lo hace duradero y versátil, y adecuado para una amplia gama de misiones. Mediante pruebas prácticas de prototipos, el desarrollo de sistemas y la colaboración con socios industriales, el equipo de NEPTUNE está explorando los puntos fuertes técnicos y el potencial comercial del TAM.

Objetivo

Highly versatile and easy-to-integrate space propulsion will unlock a new stage of the conquest and exploitation of space. NEPTUNE aims to assess the innovation potential of the ‘Magnetic Arch Tandem’ (MAT) thruster concept, which consists in pairing two electrodeless plasma sources to form an innovative closed magnetic topology for plasma jet acceleration. The MAT can operate with any propellant gas; it is simple, durable, and promises a wide operational envelope; has zero net magnetic dipole, and a lower plume divergence angle than its direct competitors, making it easily integrable in present and future space applications.
NEPTUNE pursues 4 objectives: (1) optimize the magnetic arch configuration, (2) define an efficient propulsion system architecture using commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) components where feasible, (3) engage industry stakeholders to assess market viability and explore partnerships, and (4) establish a plan for technology development and commercialization. To achieve these goals, the project will develop a breadboard MAT prototype and conduct high-vacuum chamber testing to find configurations that maximize the key propulsive performance indicators. Testing various propellants will demonstrate operational flexibility. Concurrently, a system architecture study will evaluate power electronics, fluidics, control, and structural subsystems to identify integration and optimization opportunities. Consultation with space agencies, satellite owners and integrators, and propulsion manufacturers will define key performance requirements, gauge market interest, and identify R&D partnerships. The project will protect key innovations, outline a technology maturation roadmap, and explore business models for its ulterior commercialization.
The success of NEPTUNE will bring the MAT concept to Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4 and help determine its propulsion worthiness, enabling a decision on the continuation of its development.