Propellantless attitude control of solar sail technology utilizing reflective control devices
Project Description
Solar sails offer an opportunity for propellant-free space travel, enabling long-term and long-distance missions not capable with traditional methods. However, attitude control is still performed using traditional methods involving reaction wheels and propellant ejection, which severally limits mission lifetime. To solve this problem, we propose propellantless attitude control using a polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) film, which is electrically switchable between transparent and diffusely reflective upon application of a voltage. This technology removes the need for propellant, reducing weight and cost while improving performance and lifetime.
More »Anticipated Benefits
The use of propellantless attitude control using an electrically switchable optical film will negate the use of traditional methods involving reaction wheels and propellant ejection and will vastly extend mission lifetime. Removal of the need for propellant will reduce weight and cost while improving performance and lifetime.
More »Primary U.S. Work Locations and Key Partners
| Organizations Performing Work | Role | Type | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Maryland-College Park (UMCP) | Lead Organization |
Academia
Asian American Native American Pacific Islander (AANAPISI)
|
College Park, Maryland |
Marshall Space Flight Center
(MSFC)
|
Supporting Organization | NASA Center | Huntsville, Alabama |
Primary U.S. Work Locations
-
Alabama
-
Maryland
