Background and justification: ​

• Xenon storage is challenging for small satellite platforms due to the strict thermal management and the presence of high-presure components.​
• A way of solving this problem is by having a different storage method. By storing the xenon in a cool gas generator, the xenon is bound chemically before the activation of the xenon cool gas generator. This way there is no need for high pressure components and the strict thermal management of the whole system is no longer needed​

Achievements and status: ​

Achievements:

• Successful plasma ignition was demonstrated with SSI-developed subsystems and the IRS IPT lab model. The ignition test campaign was conducted from 11th -14th April 2023 at IRS, Stuttgart.

• Two PPU amplifiers were designed, simulated, built, and tested; the Class E amplifier successfully ignited the thruster.