Snecma Moteurs will supply satellite plasma thrusters for Alcatel Space's new Spacebus 4100 series, the most powerful geostationary orbiting platform built by the company.
Lightweight and highly efficient electric plasma thrusters are used to keep a satellite in its correct location in geostationary orbit (GEO) and controls the fine pointing of its system, to ensure its operational lifetime in space.
Chemical
Lighter than chemical system thrusters, the plasma units can allow more equipment - including communications transponders - to be carried on the satellite.
Jean Claude Husson, the president and chief executive of Alcatel Space says that the contract "ensures the long-term future of plasma propulsion on Spacebus platforms". Snecma says it will almost double its orders for both chemical and electric satellite engines, with greatest increase in the plasma units.
Source: Flight Daily News
