For the first time, India’s space scientists have developed electric propulsion technology that is expected to boost the life of geostationary satellites by upto five years.
* In other words, the satellites which today have a lifespan of ten years, could last upto 15 years.The system — plasma thrusters – would be tested in GSAT-4 spacecraft slated to be launched on board GSLV later this year, ISRO chairman Madhavan Nair said.
“Electric propulsion is going to be a unique thing. It will be used in GSAT-4. This is a concept we are going to prove in this (GSAT-4). Once proven, it can be adopted as standard for future geostationary orbits”, he said.
* According to Mr. Nair, ISRO had been using chemical propulsion for station-keeping, altitude control, precision spacecraft control, stabilisation and orientation. With the use of electric propulsion, the life of the spacecraft can be enhanced.
* Plasma thrusters (using xenol gas as propellants) provide high specific impulse and operate with low fuel consumption.