IFM Nano Thruster

For 15 years, FOTEC has followed a technology push from ESA developing a FEEP propulsion technology for a precise orbit control of scientific satellites in formation flight. This very mature and worldwide unique technology is meeting a strong need in an emerging market of satellite constellations (hundreds of small satellites performing a task together). ENPULSION has been founded as a Spin-Out together with FOTEC to meet this market demand by preparing to scale the production of this thruster to several hundred units per year.

While the required power to operate the IFM Nano Thruster starts at around 8 W, at higher thrust levels one can choose between high thrust and high specific impulse operation. The IFM Nano Thruster can operate at an isp range of 2,000 to 6,000 seconds. At any given thrust point, higher isp operation will increase the total impulse, while it will also increase the power demand. The thruster can be operated along the full dynamic range throughout the mission. This means that high isp and low isp maneuvers can be included in a mission planning, as well as high thrust orbit maneuver and low thrust precision control maneuvers.