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Antoinette Menard
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Thursday, 18 September 2008 |
Snecma (SAFRAN Group) has announced the activation of its two TMA plasma propulsion modules on the Inmarsat-4 F3 satellite, launched from Baikonur, Kazakhstan on August 19.
Activation of the TMA plasma propulsion modules was carried out in successive stages, from September 4 to 16, in line with the planned procedure.
Inmarsat-4 F3 is the fourth satellite built by EADS Astrium to be fitted with twin Snecma TMA modules. Each module, comprising two SPT100 plasma thrusters, is steerable. These two modules ensure North-South stationkeeping in geostationary orbit throughout the satellite’s service life of approximately 15 years. The TMA modules have been operating perfectly on the three satellites already in operation: Intelsat 10.02, launched on June 16, 2004, Inmarsat-4 F1 and F2, launched on March 11, 2005 and November 8, 2005, respectively.
Snecma’s TMA modules have also been ordered for three new Eurostar E3000-based satellites now being produced by EADS Astrium.
According to Jacques Serre, head of the Space Engines division at Snecma, “Our positive experience in orbit and these new orders reflect the growing confidence of our customers in plasma control systems for orbital control of geostationary satellites. Using plasma propulsion instead of conventional chemical propulsion means lower weight, longer service life and greater operational flexibility.”
Snecma has been developing electric propulsion systems for satellites for more than 30 years. Since 1991, it has focused on plasma propulsion solutions in conjunction with Russian partner Fakel. Snecma developed the PPS® 1350 plasma thruster, developing 8 grams of thrust, that successfully propelled the European Space Agency’s Smart-1 lunar probe into orbit around the Moon, logging over 5,000 hours of operation. Snecma also carries out major Research & Technology work, with the support of French space agency CNES and the Haute-Normandie region (France).
Snecma, a SAFRAN Group company, is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of aircraft and rocket engines, with a wide range of propulsion systems on offer. The company designs and builds commercial aircraft engines that are powerful, reliable, economical and environmentally friendly, along with military aircraft engines that have always delivered world-class performance. Snecma also develops and produces propulsion systems and equipment for launchers, satellites and space vehicles. |
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