Overview of the research activities of the RITSAT-project

Abstract

The research of the RITSAT project is founded on a wide scientific and technological basis bringing together engineers, materials scientists, chemists and physicists. The research covers engineering aspects of EP technology, in particular, the further development of RIT-technology ranging from μN-RIT to prototypes of large RIT-35 and corresponding peripheral electronics, but also investigates new concepts of micro propulsion. It also comprises the development of plasma and plume diagnostics and their employment in test facilities. The corresponding theoretical and numerical description of ion thrusters is conducted on various levels and includes plasma modelling, thermal modelling, and circuit modelling. Materials science aspects such as the development of alternative propellants and the assessment of material damage by SC/EP interaction are also investigated. In the framework of the RITSAT activities, the EP test facilities at JLU Giessen (foremost the Jumbo tank) and at DLR Göttingen (High Vacuum Plume Test Facility Göttingen – Electric Thrusters, STG-ET) have joined forces and can compete with the largest EP test facilities in Europe. Cooperation agreements between JLU Giessen, DLR Göttingen and Airbus DS have been signed and will further consolidate these activities. The paper gives an overview of ongoing RITSAT activities highlighting the progress made in the various fields of research and giving perspectives of future work. Furthermore, the test facilities and their diagnostic equipment will be described, giving an overview of their capabilities.