Electric Ion Space Propulsion Systems and Thrusters
Radio frequency ion propulsion for orbit raising, station keeping and
deep space missions.
Overview
Our electric space propulsion expertise is based on the space proven
Radio Frequency Ion Technology (RIT). Within this field, we produce
complete propulsion systems, modules, thrusters and related components.
Background
European research into radio-frequency ion propulsion was initially
conducted in the 1960's by the University of Giessen, Germany. The
Lampoldshausen propulsion centre then joined the development team in
1970 and undertook the industrial leadership for the development of the
Radio frequency Ion Thruster Assembly (RITA).
Our first radio-frequency Ion propulsion system was
successfully demonstrated aboard ESA's European Retrievable Carrier
EURECA, launched by the Space Shuttle Atlantis in 1992.
Ion thrusters from Lampoldshausen have set a number of world records
for long duration operation, as well as the recovery of the Artemis
satellite from a total loss to full recovery.
Advantages of RIT Technology include:
- Highest specific impulse offers substantial mass saving.
- High performance at low complexity.
- Reduced power processing unit mass.
- Narrow beam divergence
- Robust design concept with a large domain of operational stability.
- Large throttle range and adaptable to available electric power.
- Excellent thrust stability and fast thrust response.
- Highest growth potential with increasing electric power in near and medium-term future.
Ion Thruster Integration
Ion Thruster - RIT 2X
Radio Frequency Ion Propulsion Flow Schematic
Working Principles of RIT Technology
The radio frequency Ion thruster uses a
high-frequency electromagnetic field to ionize xenon gas atoms to form a
plasma containing free 'light' electrons and 'heavy' positive ions. The
heavy positive ions are then accelerated by an electrostatic field
before being ejected to cause thrust.
After the ions have been ejected from the thruster,
electrons are added from a neutralizer. The plasma is thereby
neutralized which prevents the satellite from becoming charged.
Radio Frequency Ion Thruster Family
Our family of ion thrusters provides for a range of diverse space
missions with thrust levels from 50 µN through to 205mN. The portfolio
comprises a family of three thrusters:
1) RIT μX
The RITμX thruster is the smallest in the range and
is optimal for orbital manoeuvres of science mission requiring the
highest precision. Thrust levels: 50 - 500 µN.
2) RIT 10 Evo
The RIT 10 Evo thruster is ideal for north south station keeping of GEO, LEO and MEO platforms.
Thrust levels: 5mN - 15mN - 25mN.
3) RIT 2X Series
The RIT 2X Series thruster is the largest in the range and offers the best mass saving for an all electric spacecraft.
Thrust levels: 80mN - 115mN - 168mN - 205mN.
Radio Frequency Ion Thruster
RIT μX
Radio Frequency Ion Thruster
RIT 10 Evo
Radio Frequency Ion Thruster
RIT 2X Series
Xenon Tank
Module
GIESEPP (Gridded Ion Engine Standardised Electric Propulsion
Platform) Consortium
We are partners of the
GIESEPP consortium which is supported by the
European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme.
Consortium Partners include the
ArianeGroup, QinetiQ, OHB, CRISA / Airbus Defence and Space, AST –
Advanced Space Technologies, Mars Space and the University of
Southampton.
RIT Thruster Family Performance Data
More information:
Artemis recovery video
Electric propulsion video
Background and evolution of the Radio Frequency Ion
Propulsion thruster family
Electric Propulsion Systems and Components (pdf)
The brochures below are
available to view online, from where they may be downloaded. If you require the printed version of any of these brochures, or more
detailed information then please
contact us.
See the complete list of our
space propulsion brochures available for download.
Ion Thruster Family
Arclight Electric Propulsion System
