The rationale of station keeping, and technology and system considerations inherent in employing electric propulsion are discussed. Although it appears that what electric propulsion gives in terms of the large mass saving and the tremendous extension in satellite lifetime, it takes away through its complexity, the net result is overwhelmingly in its favor because the inherent problems are largely solved, and the mass saving can be reflected in either increased communications capability (more revenue), increased redundancy in the satellite payload (longer design life), or considerable extension of lifetime on station (spare satellite of indefinite lifetime, longer operating life).
Electric Propulsion: A Controversial Must for Long-Lived Applications Satellites
1977
5 pages
Report
No indication
English
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