Andrew Nicholas (NRL), Wayne Sawka (DSSP), Ted Finne (NRL), Linda Thomas (NRL), Liam Healey (NRL), Ivan Galysh (NRL), Aroh Barjatya (Embry-Riddle), Heather Cowardin (Jacobs Technology), Jeff Ransdell (DSSP), Shae Williams (DSSP)
Keywords: small satellites, SpinSat
Abstract:
The SpinSat flight is a small satellite mission proposed by the Naval Research Laboratory and Digital Solid State Propulsion (DSSP) LLC to demonstrate and characterize the on-orbit performance of electrically controlled solid propellant technology in space. Launch is expected in summer of 2014. This is an enabling technology for the small satellite community that will allow small satellites to perform maneuvers. The mission consists of a spherical spacecraft fitted with Electrically Controlled Solid Propellant thrusters and retro-reflectors for satellite laser ranging (SLR). The spacecraft will be deployed from the International Space Station. This paper presents a mission overview, ground truth characterization, preliminary results and unique SSA observation opportunities of the mission.
Date of Conference: September 9-12, 2014
Track: Poster