The MEMS PicoSat Inspector (MEPSI) Micro-Propulsion System (MiPS) is a cold gas propulsion module designed for 1U CubeSats.Using Chemically Etched Micro System (ChEMS™) technology, VACCO has produced a complete CubeSat propulsion system including propellant storage, pressurization, distribution and thrusters. This simple, highly integrated design uses a self-pressurizing liquid propellant that is expelled as a gas.
Capable of 23 N-Sec of total impulse with up to 43,000 firings, MiPS brings true propulsion capabilities to micro-spacecraft for formation flying, attitude control and velocity change (delta-v).
Features
- Five thrusters for pitch, yaw, roll and delta-v
- 53 mN thrust
- Up to 43,000 minimum impulse firings
- Redundant, frictionless valves
- All-welded titanium construction
- Dry mass: 456 grams
- Integral pressure & temperature sensors
MEPSI Micro Propulsion System Data Sheet 
Operating Parameters
| Max Operating Pressure | 150 psia | Operating Temperature | 0°C to +60°C | Gas Tank Pressure Sensor Output | 0.5 to 3.5 vdc |
| Proof Pressure | 225 psia | Vibration | 16 Grms | Coil Resistance | 5.3 +/- 0.5 coil |
| Burst Pressure | 375 psia | Cycle Life | 80,000 cycles | Pull-in Voltage | 3.5 vdc max @ 20°C |
| Thrust | 53 mN @ 20ºC | Minimum Impulse Bit | 0.53 mN-sec | Drop Out Voltage | 1.0 vdc min @ 20°C |
| Internal Leakage | 3.6 scc/hr GN2 @ 20ºC | Operating Voltage | 4.0 to 6.0 vdc | Mass | 456 grams (dry) |
| External Leakage | 1.0 x 10 -6 scc/hr GN2 @ 20ºC | Tank Pressure Sensor Output | 0.5 to 3.5 vdc |
Performance characteristics are based on customer requirements. As such, they are not representative of component capabilities or limitations.
Performance Characteristics
Envelope Drawing
System Schematic
