Vision and Achievement on Micropropulsion & Power Systems for Micro/NanoSatellites
Dr. Giulio Manzoni (Microspace, Inc., Italy)
Video: (for Windows only)
This video was produced by using RICOH's automatic video editing software at the ATIP seminar on January 19, 2004.
 Note: Real Player can be installed in your computer. (Free)
Summary:
Dr. Manzoni gives an introduction on how satellites--and in particular nano and microsatellites--can improve the quality of life together with a short introduction on MicroElectroMechanicalSystems (MEMS) and Nano/Micro Technologies (NMT). In particular, he will demonstrate results of more than 4 years of R&D effort in the field of MEMS and NMT applied to Aerospace performed by a very interdisciplinary team of Academia, Research and Industry in Europe. The trend of satellite miniaturization will be analyzed in relation to the available technologies and components. Among several satellite subsystems, particular focus will be given to the propulsion and power system which is one of the fundamental parts of any satellite and has many synergies with consumer products. The requirements of micropropulsion for orbit maneuver and attitude control of nano and microsatellites are presented in combination with the related R&D strategies and roadmaps of the European Space Agency. Examples of hardware realized by the Microspace will be demonstrated and the technology readiness level of such kind of devices is discussed in relation to the technologies required for the manufacturing. He shows an ongoing activity for the prototyping of a microturbine combination with a microelectrical generator capable to produce up to 2 Watts of electrical power and its terrestrial applications. It has been 10 years since the first concept of "Satellite on the Chip" was proposed by the Aerospace Corporation in the USA. Dr. Manzoni discusses the current status of the technology and present a proposal for the future nanosatellite architecture and roadmap.
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