Toronto team tests low-power water resistojet for small satellites

(SpaceEnergy) University of Toronto researchers have experimentally characterised a low-power water resistojet designed to provide manoeuvring capability within the mass, volume and power constraints of small satellites.

The team combined thermo-fluid modelling, parametric trade studies and vacuum-chamber testing of prototype thrusters to investigate performance at low electrical power.

Resistojets generate thrust by electrically heating a propellant before expansion through a nozzle. The researchers selected water because it is non-toxic, relatively easy to store and compatible with small-satellite power budgets.

The work focuses on improving efficiency at low input power, which the team identified as a continuing challenge for water resistojet systems. Prototype testing was conducted using a low-cost vacuum testbed and compared with analytical modelling.

The research was presented at the Small Satellite Conference in Salt Lake City, Utah, on 24 August. The conference paper became publicly available on 22 August.