A discussion about how FEEP propulsion and thrust vectoring innovation can open up new possibilities for small satellite operators.
In this episode we speak with Alexander Reissner and Tony Schoenherr from ENPULSION – an Austrian propulsion technology manufacturer. We discuss:
- Field-emission electric propulsion (FEEP) – a form of propulsion using liquid metal as a propellant
- Thrust vectoring – the ability to control thrust direction for complex movements
- ENPULSION’s history and product development process
- What such propulsion capabilities can bring to missions today, and where the field might be heading in the future.
ENPULSION’s product portfolio
Building on the heritage of the ENPULSION NANO, ENPULSION has developed a scaled version of the technology to target small and medium size spacecrafts. The ENPULSION MICRO R³ is engineered in a modular approach, with units clustering easily together to form building blocks.
specific impulse
1500 to 6000 s
total impulse
> 50 kN s
dynamic thrust range
200 µN - 1.35 mN
dry mass (including PPU)
2.6 kg
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While the required power to operate the ENPULSION NANO starts at around 10 W, at higher thrust levels one can choose between high thrust and high specific impulse operation. The ENPULSION NANO can operate at at an Isp range of 2,000 to 6,000 s.
specific impulse
2000 to 6000 s
total impulse
> 5000 N s
dynamic thrust range
10 to 350 µN
dry mass
680 g
The ENPULSION Nano AR³ uses differential emission throttling within the proprietary crown ion emitter to control actively the emitted ion beam and, therefore, thrust.
specific impulse
2000 to 6000 s
total impulse
> 5000 N s
dynamic thrust range
10 µN - 0.35 mN
dry mass
< 1230 g
While the required power to operate the ENPULSION NANO R³ starts at around 8 W, at higher power levels one can choose between high thrust and high specific impulse operation. The ENPULSION NANO R³ can operate at an Isp range of 2,000 to 6,000 s.
specific impulse
2000 to 6000 s
total impulse
> 5000 N s
dynamic thrust range
10 to 350 µN
dry mass
< 1200 g