Researchers from a research institute affiliated with the Moscow Aviation Institute have developed a Hall-effect thruster model HT-1000. This device generates thrust by ejecting a high-speed ion flow and can be used for orbit correction and other tasks on spacecraft.
According to a recent report by Rossiya Gazeta quoting the researchers, the development of the HT-1000 thruster has been completed, and prototype testing has been successfully carried out.
The thruster operates by supplying power to the device and utilizing the Hall effect (the electromotive force generated by the interaction between current and magnetic field in a conductive material) to ionize inert gases such as xenon or krypton, producing plasma consisting of electrons and free ions. The ions are then accelerated by an electric field in the ionization chamber and ejected at high speed from the thruster through the discharge chamber. The thrust generated by this high-speed ion flow enables spacecraft to maneuver in space.
The report states that the HT-1000 thruster is suitable for satellites, probes, and other spacecraft with a mass of no less than 450kg, operating in low orbits, and having an “active service life” of up to 7 years. It enables precise and minor corrections or adjustments to spacecraft orbits; during “one rocket, multiple satellites” launches, it allows each small spacecraft to separate at the appropriate time; at the end of a spacecraft’s service life, it directs the spacecraft off its orbit for planned deorbiting; and ensures predictable spacecraft operation.
Russian researchers noted that although the HT-1000 thruster still requires traditional fuel to operate, the “propellant” it uses to generate thrust is an inert gas. This reduces the overall fuel reserve and launch weight of the spacecraft, increases the effective payload, and thereby lowers launch costs.
According to a report by RT (Russia Today), the development unit is currently preparing for qualification testing of the HT-1000 thruster based on the specific requirements of users. Its partner, the Russian company “Orbital Technologies,” has already established a production base for mass manufacturing the thruster.
