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Microelectronic Device for Spacecraft Thermal and Attitude Control

Summary: Researchers at Purdue University have developed a novel picosatellite propulsion mechanism that is not only able to provide thrust, but also spacecraft thermal control. This new design, known as the Film-Evaporation MEMS Tunable Array (FEMTA), exploits the use of microscale surface tension forces to eliminate propellant valves and unique physics of microscale evaporation to provide repeatable micronewton thrust pulses using only milliwatts of input power. Highly repeatable operation of this MEMS device was first demonstrated in 2015 using the simplest of working fluids, water. In addition to the propulsive capabilities offered by the device, the heat of vaporization of the working fluid provides the capability to absorb waste heat of the satellite, effectively providing thermal control. This FEMTA concept utilizes the MEMS fabrication process to integrate its various components in a compact system. This new propulsion and thermal control mechanism allows for the continued development and advancement of small spacecraft in many areas, ranging from orbital maneuvering to picosat formation flying.

Technology Benefits: Small, compact size Highly efficient Utilizes MEMS fabrication

Technology Application: Picosat thermal management Micropropulsion Attitude control

Detailed Technology Description: Alina AlexeenkoAlexeenko Research TeamPurdue Aeronautics and Astronautics

Countries: United States

Application No.: None

*Abstract

*Background: The growing field of miniaturized satellites and picosats demands unique propulsion systems options due to the small size, typically the size of a soda can, and low power availability. Current chemical propulsion options are too bulky and do not offer fine tuning of thrust for the tiny spacecraft mass and electrical propulsion options demand bulky solar arrays and power supplies that are not viable at this mass/size scale. As a result, an efficient picosat propulsion mechanism is needed.

*IP Issue Date: None

*IP Type: Provisional

*Stage of Development: Process validation in lab

*Web Links: Purdue Office of Technology CommercializationPurdueInnovation and EntrepreneurshipAlina AlexeenkoAlexeenko Research TeamPurdue Aeronautics and Astronautics

Country/Region: USA

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