Implementation of laser-ablative microthrusters using MEMS-scanner and liquid lens systems

Abstract

Laser ablative microthrusters possess a variety of unique properties in the context of electric propulsion. In one version, we refer to as the MICROLAS concept, the aspect of a monolithic design without the need of any moving parts is addressed. Such a design has the potential to generate thrust with exquisite noise characteristics and allows to use feedback loops in the kHz range. As it is a concept the ideal MICROLAS system cannot be built with current optoelectronic technology. Nevertheless, with some restrictions it is possible to design a system very close to the original specifications. Here we chose to use a microelectromechanical scanning mirror and a liquid lens system, to provide all necessary optical steering properties within a compact and light system comparable in size and weight to a turkey sandwich. The detailed opto-electro-mechanical design and first results with the assembled system are presented.