Grid stiffened structures are a type of CFRP structure that is created by arranging multiple ribs in a type of lattice network. Each rib is created from unidirectional pre-preg plies and is joined together in nodes. For this particular application/technology also a skin is foreseen to close the gaps left in the grid structure. This type of configuration allows for structures with a very high specific strength and specific stiffness. The activity seeks to further develop the technology for use in a launcher inter-stage application.

Achievements and status: During a hot fire campaign (TRL-6), the thruster engineering models (EM1 and SN2) have proven ability to perform within the nominal operational pressure box of a standard GEO CPS specification. The thruster demonstrated low thrust roughness and margin against combustion instabilities for a wide throughput range. The maximum recorded throat temperature, slightly above 1300°C, shows margin against the platinum-alloy limits.

The activity consists in the development of a voltage clamp integrated circuit to be used in power conversion and distribution architectures based on Point of Load (or linear) regulators. Such functions are currently based on discrete whit corresponding drawbacks and limitations.

The aim of this study was to investigate potential small mission architectures that would further ESA's exploration objectives at Mars post-Mars Sample Return (in the 2030s) or potentially in parallel with MSR (if sufficiently low cost).

The focus of this study was the system-level assessment of potential small mission architectures that could operate at Mars in the 2030s, after or potentially in parallel with MSR mission.

In particular two cases were evaluated:

• Mission 1: Mars Communications Constellation (MCC), for supporting assets on the surface and providing science
• Mission 2: Mars Science Orbiter (MSO), a science-driven mission, remote sensing

Plastic marine litter is becoming a major environmental concern. Microwaves (MW) have potential for remote detection of floating macroplastics operating from Satellites or Airborne platforms, but very scarce and limited studies exist in the literature using MW. We present the first results of a systematic study on MW scattering of floating low-mass macroplastics at 2-20 GHz frequency band using radar techniques.