The system has two 1 N rocket engines and a tank containing 5,6 kg propellant (providing a delta-V capability of 60 m/s). The system delivered for Prisma is a flight demonstration in itself, but will also contribute to the manoeuvring of the satellite.

Delivery of the first HPGP propulsion system for flight onboard a satellite is an important milestone for ECAPS. Launch of the Prisma satellites is scheduled for spring 2009.

A HPGP system has 30% higher density specific impulse than a conventional Hydrazine based propulsion system and provides lower cost for the satellite manufacturer by simplified handling procedures due to the environmentally benign fuel.

The development and manufacture of this system is a continuation of the successful research and development program regarding environmentally benign propellants and propulsion hardware performed under earlier contracts from the Swedish National Space Board and the European Space Agency. Under these contracts, ECAPS has developed a high performance monopropellant fuel based on ADN (Ammonium Di-Nitramide) and a corresponding 1 N rocket engine. These efforts have put ECAPS in a leading position in the field of environmentally benign propulsion, often referred to as “Green Propulsion”.

“After this flight demonstration on a satellite we will be able to offer an environmentally benign alternative to the presently widely used monopropellant propulsion systems based on Hydrazine, which is both toxic and carcinogenic” says Mr. Rolf Möllerberg, President of ECAPS.

For more information, please contact Rolf Möllerberg,
tel: +46-8-627 63 72

Read about ECAPS on www.ecaps.se

Read about Prisma on SSC's website  and on  www.prismasatellites.se


Image: Integration of HPGP on Prisma


ECAPS is a limited company, owned by the Swedish Space Corporation, with the aim to develop, manufacture and market Reduced Hazard Propulsion Systems. www.ecaps.se