Abstract
Based on a new concept, a low power electrostatic thruster is being developed for its application to 50 kg class satellite, which is named "Microwave Plasma Thruster". The proto-model (PM) of the microwave engine was manufactured and the qualification test (QT) was conducted. The estimated performances operated at 26.6W are 1250 seconds in specific impulse, 0.36mN in thrust and 10% in thrust efficiency, respectively. In future work, we started to research the new microwave engine which is operated at higher power using hydrazine as propellant for applications of geostationary satellites.
