Prague 7-8 May 2009

Helicon Plasma Hydrazine.

combined micro

(HPH.com)

D.Pavarin

RESIAIng Antonio Selmo

Progettazione e realizzazioneapparati elettronici

di precisione

Prague 7-8 May 2009

Helicon Plasma Hydrazine. Combined Micro

• Optimization and development a new

type of space plasma thruster

based on helicon-radio-frequency

technology

• Is one of the bigger project funded

in the world about helicon plasma

• The core is an helicon source

surrounded by a suitable magnetic

field plus a secondary propellant

Target Performances

Mode IPlasma

Mode IIPlasma + 2nd Prop

Power (W)

50 W 50

Thrust (mN)

1.5 mN 20 mN

Isp (s) >1200 >400

Prague 7-8 May 2009

Key features of HPH.com

Why this propulsion system is innovative?

• It is very simple THUS reliable and low-cost

• It is versatile since it combines two different propulsion system in one, THUS making it

possible a wide range of missions

• It is easily scalable THUS in the future this could be also the base for interplanetary

flights

• It will be all European based Technology

•bigger payloadsbigger payloads•New mission scenariosmission scenarios

•New services at lower costs. New services at lower costs. •Application to standard industriesstandard industries

• Strengthening of European competitionStrengthening of European competition.

THUS!

Prague 7-8 May 2009

• The consortium comprises 15

partners from 5 EU nations (I, F,

E, NL, DK), and 2 ICPC countries

(Russia and Ukraine).

• Academic institutes, Research

centres,

2 enterprises with leading role in

space activities and 4 SMEs.

HPH.com consortium

Prague 7-8 May 2009

Theoretical

investigation

Technology

Development

Experimental

investigation

A 360° approach

Innovative

Space

thruster

Prague 7-8 May 2009

• KNOWLEDGE : A new and deep insight on physics of this type of

plasma source, and propulsion system.

• TOOLS: (i) new advanced tools numerical allowing detailed

investigation and modeling of a wide range of propulsion systems,

moreover, (ii) advanced experimental set-up will be developing

increasing experimental capabilities within Europe.

• HARDWARE: a qualification model , representative of the space-flight-

hardware will be developed.

• APPLICATIONS: Applications to new mission profile and ordinary

industries

• DISSEMINATION: Results and methodology will be widely

disseminated through specific actions

Main Expected out-come of the study