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Electric Propulsion

A plasma propulsion engine is a type of electric propulsion that generates thrust from a quasi-neutral plasma. This contrasts with ion thruster engines, which generate thrust through extracting an ion current from the plasma source, which is then accelerated to high velocities using grids/anodes.

Plasma engines have a much higher specific impulse (Isp) value than other types of rocket technology. Because of their fuel efficiency, plasma thrusters can save spacecraft operators millions of dollars in operating costs while increasing the value of the spacecraft’s data product.

Plasma thrusters are ideal for applications in small spacecraft for attitude control, precision spacecraft control, and low-thrust manoeuvres.

Pulsar HET thrusters can extend the orbital lifetime of each satellite using efficient drag compensation and reduce the rate of replacement launches required to maintain your space infrastructure.

Pulsar thrusters are tested at a UK government facility to ensure they can withstand launch conditions and comply with industry standards.

Explainer Video

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1.5kW HET

Propellants
Ar, Kr, Xe
Assembly Mass
4.75kg
Dimensions
94 x 94 x 114.5mm
Voltage
350V
Current
4.25A
Power
1500W to 2500W
Nominal Thrust
100mN
Specific Impulse
1725s
Estimated Total Impulse
7.2MNs *(assumes 20000hrs life)
Efficiency (%)
50

Product Testing Video

5kW HET

Propellants
Ar,Kr,Xe
Assembly Mass
12.4kg
Dimensions
144 x 144 x 117mm
Voltage (V)
300 to 600
Current (A)
6 to 16
Power (W)
5000 to 6000
Nominal Thrust (mN)
295 to 325
Specific Impulse (s)
2000 to 2600
Estimated Total Impulse
23MNs *(assumes 20000hrs life)
Efficiency (%)
50

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20kW HET

Propellants
Ar,Kr,Xe
Assembly Mass
43kg
Dimensions
189 x 189 x 127mm
Voltage (V)
450 to 600
Current (A)
14 - 18.2
Power (W) *
15000 to 20000
Nominal Thrust
1010mN
Specific Impulse (s)
2025 to 2700
Estimated Total Impulse
72MNs *(assumes 20000hrs life)
Efficiency (%)
50

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