PRESENT STATUS OF COLLOID MICROTHRUSTER TECHNOLOGY

Performance tests in the 100-hr range have been conducted for 100-μlb thruster modules at average specific impulses ranging from 577 to 1135 sec. Three new thruster configurations— bipolar self neutralizing, linear slit, and high-voltage thick needle—have been investigated. A 50-μlb bipolar module has been run for two 50-hr tests at specific impulses of 700 and 800 sec. A complete micro thruster flight system is being developed for yaw control of a synchronous satellite. One thruster module for this system has accumulated 1500-hr operation (820 hr continuous) in the 800-sec specific impulse range with no degradation. Direct transverse thrust measurements of an electrostatically deflected colloid beam were taken to demonstrate thrust vector control capability. Up to 40-μlb transverse force was measured for 129-μlb total thrust. © 1968 American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Inc., All rights reserved.