Small spacecraft missions for planetary science face challenging propulsive maneuvers that require high velocity changes. These maneuvers, such as achieving planetary escape velocities and orbit capture, go beyond what typical commercial spacecraft require and exceed the current state-of-the-art capabilities. To execute these maneuvers successfully, the most critical technology needed for small spacecraft missions is an electric propulsion system that can carry out high-delta-v maneuvers.
The electric propulsion system must be capable of operating using low power (sub-kilowatt) while still having a high-propellant throughput. This means that the system must be able to use a large total mass of propellant over its lifetime to generate the required impulse to carry out the necessary maneuvers. The high-propellant throughput is essential for achieving the velocity changes needed for planetary escape and orbit capture.
Without an electric propulsion system that meets these requirements, small spacecraft missions for planetary science would be limited in their ability to execute the necessary propulsive maneuvers. By developing and implementing electric propulsion systems with these capabilities, small spacecraft will be able to explore planets and achieve mission objectives that were previously unattainable.
In conclusion, small spacecraft missions for planetary science require challenging propulsive maneuvers that exceed current state-of-the-art capabilities. The development and implementation of an electric propulsion system with high delta-v capability is critical for executing these maneuvers successfully. With this technology, small spacecraft will be able to explore planets and achieve mission objectives that were previously unattainable.
