Demonstrating a new technology for space debris removal using a bi-directional plasma thruster

Area of Science:

• Aerospace Engineering
• Plasma Physics
• Space Systems Engineering

Background:

• Space debris poses a significant threat to sustainable space activities.
• Current debris removal methods require complex and often inefficient systems.
• Maintaining relative position during debris capture is a critical challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and demonstrate a single electric propulsion device for controlled space debris removal.
• To investigate the feasibility of using a magnetic nozzle plasma thruster for bi-directional plasma ejection.
• To enable simultaneous deceleration of debris and station-keeping of the removal satellite.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a magnetic nozzle plasma thruster with two open-source exits.
• Conducted experiments within a laboratory space simulation chamber.
• Simultaneously measured forces on the thruster and a debris-simulating target plate.

Main Results:

• Successfully demonstrated bi-directional plasma ejection using a single thruster.
• Achieved a decelerating force on the simulated debris.
• Obtained a zero net force on the thruster, ensuring satellite stability.
• Showed that forces are controllable via external electrical parameters, allowing mode switching.

Conclusions:

• A single magnetic nozzle plasma thruster can effectively perform space debris removal.
• The system allows for independent control of debris deceleration and satellite propulsion.
• This technology offers a promising solution for sustainable space debris management.