Introduction

In a remarkable stride for student-led innovation in aerospace engineering, the Electric Propulsion Club (EPC) at The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) recently showcased their experimental ion thruster, named STARGATE, at the prestigious 75th International Astronautical Congress (IAC) in Milan, Italy. This remarkable presentation was made by a dedicated team of UAH undergraduates who are forging new paths in electric propulsion and plasma physics.

Growing Demand for Electric Propulsion

As the demand for small-scale, low-power electric propulsion systems skyrockets due to the surge of small satellites in Earth orbit, the UAH EPC is at the forefront of this exciting technological evolution. Electric propulsion systems facilitate advanced capabilities that are crucial for modern spacecraft, such as autonomous station keeping, collision avoidance, precision rendezvous, and effective orbit modifications.

Participation at the IAC

The IAC drew an impressive crowd of over 11,000 participants from more than 120 countries, including leaders of various national space agencies. UAH EPC members making the trip included Claude Blue, the junior aerospace engineering major and president of the group; Noa Milivojevic, chief mechanical engineer; Dmitri Tsahelnik, physics and aerospace engineering sophomore; and Ella Hazle, also a sophomore in aerospace engineering.

Introducing STARGATE

Unveiling the STARGATE system represents a significant advancement in ion propulsion technology, as it leverages a unique approach to plasma production for small satellite propulsion. Utilizing a corona discharge reaction, the STARGATE design eschews traditional hollow discharge cathodes in favor of a more efficient method, setting the stage for a potential patent through the UAH Office of Technology Commercialization.

How Ion Thrusters Work

Ion thrusters work by ionizing a neutral gas and using electric fields to accelerate the ions, generating thrust in the process. The STARGATE system’s innovative method of producing plasma through corona discharge could redefine how small satellites navigate the cosmos.

Networking Opportunities

Claude Blue emphasized the immense potential of the IAC as a networking opportunity, stating, “We forged essential connections and explored partnerships that could further our technology’s development." The faculty advisor for the group, Dr. Themistoklis Chronis, a clinical assistant professor of physics and astronomy, has been pivotal in guiding these promising students.

Path to the IAC

The EPC's journey to this international stage was catalyzed by their victory at the Von Braun Symposium Student Poster Contest in 2023, further sponsored by the American Astronautical Society. Their success was bolstered by support from various faculty members and organizations within the Alabama Space Grant Consortium.

Insights and Inspiration

Blue articulated the collaborative spirit of the event, noting, “Witnessing the coming together of bright minds in the industry was inspiring. We gained invaluable insights into the future of aerospace and were introduced to groundbreaking technologies that could influence our future projects, including developments like VAST Space's HAVEN 2 concept and the cutting-edge AXIOM PRADA space suit.”

Conclusion

As the EP Club continues to push the boundaries of innovation, their efforts symbolize a dynamic fusion of education and industry, indicating that the future of space propulsion lies in the hands of these ambitious students. This leap in technology may not just redefine small satellite propulsion but could also shape the next generation of space explorations. Prepare to witness the dawn of a new era in electric propulsion!