Propellantless propulsion system could keep satellites in orbit, reduce space junk

One of the main factors limiting the life of satellites is how much propellant they can carry to execute orbital corrections. Now scientists in Spain have come up with a propellantless propulsion system that also doubles as an electric generator. Using the Earth’s magnetic field interacting with a 2-km long aluminum tether, the system could be used to dispose of space debris and boost the orbit of the International Space Station (ISS).

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So it gets its energy from Earths magnetic field using a 2km conductor

Interesting.

Tau.Neutrino said:

Propellantless propulsion system could keep satellites in orbit, reduce space junk

One of the main factors limiting the life of satellites is how much propellant they can carry to execute orbital corrections. Now scientists in Spain have come up with a propellantless propulsion system that also doubles as an electric generator. Using the Earth’s magnetic field interacting with a 2-km long aluminum tether, the system could be used to dispose of space debris and boost the orbit of the International Space Station (ISS).

more…

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So it gets its energy from Earths magnetic field using a 2km conductor

Interesting.

> “Space tethers have been investigated for decades and have flown in more than twenty space missions,”

Correct. Unfortunately, they have had a complete lack of success so far. I wish them luck for this trial. I actually have a great fondness for space tethers – I just think that they need to be stronger.