Cost-Optimum Electric Propulsion for Constellations

摘要

The optimization of electric propulsion system performance for low-Earth-orbit and geostationary -Earth-orbit constellations ac- cording to the profitability criterion leads to a decrease of the specific impulse of Hall-effect thrusters to 12-15 kNs/kg. Furthermore, as a consequence of the optimization of the powered flight time, the electric propulsion lifetime would be shortened to 2000-3000 h, which would make flight qualification easier and less expensive. Electric propulsion system based on Hall-effect thruster optimized Towards low specific impulses reduces power converter output volt- Age leading to an increase of the power converter efficiency and to A decrease in the specific mass.