Technology Advancement in Support of NASAs Evolutionary Xenon Thruster (NEXT) System Power Processing Unit (NEXT PPU)
Project Description
This IRAD advances the Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of the NASA Evolutionary Xenon Thruster (NEXT) Power Processing Unit (PPU) to level 6. The NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) is leading this effort; however, the unique knowledge and experience GSFC possesses, as a spaceflight center, is needed to ensure the PPU is properly matured.
The objective of this IRAD is to advance the TRL of the PPU to 6. This includes supporting GRC with requirements review and validation, design updates and hardware modifications, assessment of parts selection and radiation analysis and FPGA board development.
The ultimate goal of the effort is to fabricate and flight qualify a prototype PPU whose design can be implemented with the other NEXT components.
More »Anticipated Benefits
The development of the NASA Evolutionary Xenon Thruster (NEXT) Solar Electric Propulsion (SEP) system opens many new possibilities for planetary missions.
Technology can be used on DoD satellites
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Primary U.S. Work Locations and Key Partners
| Organizations Performing Work | Role | Type | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
Goddard Space Flight Center
(GSFC)
|
Lead Organization | NASA Center | Greenbelt, Maryland |
Glenn Research Center
(GRC)
|
Supporting Organization | NASA Center | Cleveland, Ohio |
Primary U.S. Work Locations
-
Maryland
