Computational Modeling of Low Reynolds Number Micronozzle Performance

Abstract

Due to their simplicity, low thrust cold-gas propulsion systems have the potential to provide orbital maneuvering capability for small, micro- and even nano-satellites. Each specific mission where cold gas thrusts will be used places a unique set of requirements on the system. For example, micro-spacecraft with masses of 1 - 50 kg, will require thrust levels for typical orbital maintenance maneuvers of 0.1 - 1OmN. Missions which require precise attitude control, where the most important factor is a very low thrust will require thrust levels between 10 - 100 micro N. To obtain these low thrust values, small nozzle dimensions and low chamber pressures are usually used.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 14, 1999
Accession Number
ADA408799

Entities

People

  • Andrew D. Ketsdever
  • Dean C. Wadsworth
  • Guenadi N. Markelov
  • Mikhail S. Ivanov

Organizations

  • Air Force Research Laboratory

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Air Platforms
  • Space
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Air Force Research Laboratories
  • Boundary Layer
  • Cold Gases
  • Fluid Dynamics
  • Geometry
  • Knudsen Number
  • Mach Number
  • Mass Flow
  • Monte Carlo Method
  • Navier Stokes Equations
  • Pressure Distribution
  • Propulsion Systems
  • Reynolds Number
  • Simulations
  • Spacecraft
  • Specific Impulse

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Aerospace Propulsion Engineering.

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Hall-Effect Thruster
  • Space - Satellites
  • Space - Spacecraft Maneuvers