Objectives: Understanding the basics of space propulsion, microsatellite design and the handling of space
debris: • Space propulsion: Foundations, Chemical propulsion, electric propulsion, Assets, concepts, Sources of energy, fuels, types of propellants, Micropropulsion for nano- and micro-satellites • Space debris: Generalities, detection and follow-up, legislation, Deorbitation methods, Controlled reentry • Scientific Cubesats: Specificity and assets of Cubesats, Basic elements of a mission, Principles and instrumentation for plasma measurements, Examples of scientific CubeSats • Associated projects (TP): Hall thrusters and Cubesats: characterization of thrusters and Cubesat instruments in the NExET bench (vacuum chamber for electric propulsion), Atmospheric reentry of debris: measurements of plasma parameters in the PHEDRA wind tunnel (high enthalpy flow, arc jet generator)
