Technology Opportunities

Vacuum arc thrusters (VAT) are electric rocket-propulsion devices that provide thrust capabilities to spacecraft. The lifespan of a conventional VAT is low and its use as a spacecraft thruster is limited. Current solutions requires magnetic fields that can interfere with onboard magnetic sensors and induce magnetic torque disturbance. Thus, there is a need for a reliable, non-magnetic VAT.

This invention describes a VAT with a mechanically controlled feeding mechanism, providing continuous and reliable feeding without the use of magnetic fields. This technology is applicable in nanosatellite propulsion, spacecraft control, spacecraft drag compensation and material processing, among others.