AIS-VAT2 Vacuum Arc Thruster
Applied Ion Systems
A 20W-class next-generation vacuum arc thruster scaled up from the VAT1-PQ design, sized for a wide range of CubeSats in a 0.5U form factor.
Technical specifications
- Type
- Vacuum Arc Thruster
- Power
- 20W
- Thrust (Beginning of Life)
- 128uN (at 2Hz)
- Thrust (End of Life)
- 32uN (at 2Hz)
- Shot Lifetime
- up to 300,000
- Total Impulse
- 8Ns
- ISP
- TBD
- Rep Rate
- 1-2Hz
- Size
- 92x92x50mm
- Mass
- 700g
- Fuel
- Bismuth
- Inputs
- 5V, GND, x2 Logic Commands
- Status
- IN DEVELOPMENT
About
The AIS-VAT2 Vacuum Arc Thruster represents the next generation in development of larger class vacuum arc thrusters at AIS. At operation of 20W or less and only 0.5U volume, the VAT2 is sized for use with a wide range of CubeSats, specifically allowing for from smaller to larger sized systems. The VAT2 still leverages the same design principles as the original VAT1-PQ, allowing for the same level of control and operation as the smaller VAT1 Series thrusters.
Fuel: Bismuth. Status: IN DEVELOPMENT.
Documentation
No public datasheet yet — request the datasheet / ICD from the supplier.
