Space

World's first all-electric propulsion satellite goes on line

World's first all-electric propulsion satellite goes on line
Artist's concept of the ABS-3A satellite which uses an ion propulsionsystem 10 times more efficient than liquid-fueled rockets
Artist's concept of the ABS-3A satellite which uses an ion propulsionsystem 10 times more efficient than liquid-fueled rockets
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Artist's concept of the ABS-3A satellite which uses an ion propulsionsystem 10 times more efficient than liquid-fueled rockets
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Artist's concept of the ABS-3A satellite which uses an ion propulsionsystem 10 times more efficient than liquid-fueled rockets

Boeing has announced that the first satellite with all-electric propulsion is now fully operational. Launched last March, the ABS-3A 702SP (small platform) satellite was formally handed over to its owner, Bermuda-based telecommunications company ABS, on August 31. It will provide communications services to the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

ABS-3A launched on March 1 atop a Falcon 9 rocket from SpaceX’s Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida along with EUTELSAT 115 West B. The geosynchronous comsat's key technology is its Xenon Ion Propulsion System (XIPS). Previously, hybrid systems that use a mix of chemical and ion propellants have been sent into orbit, but this is the first time a satellite has been deployed with an all-electric drive.

Boeing says that the technology is based on 210,000 hours of ion propulsion flight experience and is 10 times more efficient than liquid-fueled rockets. Four 25-cm (9.8-in) thrusters using xenon as a propellant allow the 702SP satellite to maintain stationkeeping while using only 5 kg (11 lb) of fuel per year. This is a great saving because the satellite needs less fuel and smaller thrusters, which reduces launch costs.

After launch, the XIPS drive allowed ABS-3A to power itself into geosynchronous orbit, where it is stationed at 3° West longitude. A second 702SP satellite (ABS-2A) for ABS is scheduled to launch next year.

"With a successful launch, testing, and execution of orbit operations, we were able to deliver the first 702SP to ABS about one month earlier than planned," says Mark Spiwak, president, Boeing Satellite Systems International. "The 702SP product line was designed to bring the latest technology into the hands of customers seeking adaptable and affordable solutions. In addition, the 702SP’s patented dual-launch capability helps customers share launch costs, which can significantly lower overall expenses for a satellite owner."

Source: Boeing

5 comments
5 comments
Derek Howe
While yes, ion propulsion is a great thing, I think it's misleading when you/they say it's "all electric propulsion", because it isn't, it burns xenon gas. All electric would be that crazy new microwave engine that blew up the interwebs a few months back. I'm much more interested then THAT engine, then this one. (Think you're referring to this - http://www.gizmag.com/cannae-reactionless-drive-space-propulsion/33210/ - Ed.)
GaryWalters
Whether it is propelled with Argon, Xenon, like the Dawn Spacecraft or pure energy generated by solar cells only, I hope the program to work on larger ion drive engines for platforms like the International Space Station. Since the ISS is a science and engineering research platform, ion drive could be demonstrated for re-boosting orbits, and perhaps as the Aldrin Cycle someday.
zevulon
yes, so far the all electric momentum engine is a lie and unproven undemonstrated in public.
it's a lie.
this is 'electro-static' propulsion rather than chemical propulsion. so it's not inaccurate.
yes , there is propellant. that doesn't make it non-electric.
hgdorsey
Actually, totally electromagnetic thrust is not only possible but already is being used in highly classified military space operations. This is being done using "Counterbary" and variations of the Townsend-Brown electrogravitic effect. To learn more on this subject go here: http://www.amazon.com/Secret-Science-Space-Program-ebook/dp/B00PSS3RE0
Douglas Bennett Rogers
It is an electric engine which use a reaction medium, the xenon. This is classic ion drive. Some of the space probes have used ion drive for a major part of the mission. All or part of the ISS could be converted into a deep space mission in this way. May be more cost effective to start over, though.