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Patent drawing for Methods and apparatus for performing propulsion operations using electric propulsion systems
US 10,689,132 B2
Spacecraft US 10,689,132 B2 Not in force

Methods and apparatus for performing propulsion operations using electric propulsion systems

This invention describes a way to move and control a spacecraft using only electric thrusters, without any traditional chemical rockets. It uses two electric thrusters, one on each side of the spacecraft, along with a tank to hold the propellant for these thrusters. The claims specifically mention using types like ion or Hall effect thrusters, which are highly efficient but produce very low thrust.

Why it matters: Since 2018, the small satellite market has expanded significantly, increasing demand for efficient, all-electric propulsion for orbit raising and station-keeping. This makes a chemical-free propulsion system more attractive.

Status
Not in forceListed as no longer active. The specific reason is not in the record we hold.
How hard to build
SpecializedElectric thrusters, vacuum components, propellant management

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