Print Email Facebook Twitter Design and characterisation of a bi-modal solar thermal propulsion and power system for small satellites Title Design and characterisation of a bi-modal solar thermal propulsion and power system for small satellites Author Leverone, F.K. (TU Delft Space Systems Egineering) Cervone, A. (TU Delft Space Systems Egineering) Pini, M. (TU Delft Flight Performance and Propulsion) Gill, E.K.A. (TU Delft Space Engineering) Department Space Engineering Date 2021 Abstract Small satellites with increased capabilities in terms of power and propulsion are being demanded for future missions. This paper addresses an alternative bi-modal solution which consists of a solar thermal propulsion system coupled with a micro-Organic Rankine Cycle system, to co-generate thrust and electrical power. Current literature on bi-modal systems is limited to static power conversion systems such as thermionic conversion processes. Therefore, this paper expands the research of bi-modal systems to dynamic power conversion systems and latent heat storage systems. The paper documents the design process, key design parameters, and feasibility of this system for a Geostationary Transfer Orbit to Lunar Orbit insertion mission. The results of a single-objective optimisation show the system is most suitable on-board small satellites with a gross mass above 300 kg. The propellant accounts for 50% of the total system mass. The final design uses Silicon as the latent heat energy storage system due to its high specific energy of more than 250 Wh/kg. Additionally, the enthalpy method is used to describe the dynamic behaviour of the phase change material and results show the insulation thermal conductivity has the largest effect, up to 17%, on the receiver's maximum achievable steady-state temperature. Subject Mini-satellitesSilicon phase change materialSolar concentrationUltra-high temperatures To reference this document use: http://resolver.tudelft.nl/uuid:489001ee-11cf-4f5f-9dca-819b18916074 DOI https://doi.org/10.1016/j.applthermaleng.2021.116609 ISSN 1359-4311 Source Applied Thermal Engineering, 189 Part of collection Institutional Repository Document type journal article Rights © 2021 F.K. Leverone, A. Cervone, M. Pini, E.K.A. Gill Files PDF 1_s2.0_S135943112100065X_main.pdf 3.23 MB Close viewer /islandora/object/uuid:489001ee-11cf-4f5f-9dca-819b18916074/datastream/OBJ/view