Nanofluid Satellite Thrusters

Project Summary

Defence capability requires secure satellites for communication, surveillance, and positioning; however space is becoming crowded and hostile, demanding satellite systems that can respond to adverse events. Most satellites cannot autonomously avoid space junk or hostile objects due to a lack of onboard propulsion.

Nanofluidic thrusters offer a solution, based on nanoscale actuation of ionic liquids in chip-based (non-invasive) thrusters.

This project aims to exploit the unusual nanoscale properties of fluids to embed nanothrusters in the satellite frame, adding self-defence agility without displacing payload.