MEMS-based electric propulsion (EP) presents several advantages over conventional EP approaches, including scalability, redundancy, fine thrust control, low thrust noise, and reduced operation voltage. Small spacecraft (1- 100 kg) in particular stand to benefit from MEMS-based propulsion. The design, microfabrication and performance of an electrospray thruster with integrated individual extractor electrodes are reported. Micro-machining technologies were employed to achieve large emitter density, simple integration and high structural repeatability.
Herbert Shea, Simon Dandavino, Daniel George Courtney
Herbert Shea, Daniel George Courtney
Auke Ijspeert, Peter Eckert, Anouk Looijestijn