EPPL: Electric Propulsion and Plasma Laboratory

"Purdue University researchers have created a novel micropropulsion system for nanosatellite applications using a liquid fed pulsed-plasma thruster. It uses a liquid propellant for Lorentz-force pulsed-plasma accelerator and extended lifetime ignition system driven by nanosecond long pulses..."

"Now, Purdue University researchers have developed a technology to address one of those key problems – the uncertainty of the ignition system that initiates the propulsion system of the CubeSats. Current ignition systems are unreliable and can be subject to significant and irreversible damage during the lifespan of the satellite..."

"Finally, the team from Purdue University created a low-friction test bed to test CubeSats, which are micro satellites. These are commonly used in experiments to demonstrate new technology in Low Earth Orbit. One major application of these micro satellites are rendezvous proximity operations, where a LiDAR sensor is used to accurately track its position to another object. The team developed a low-friction test bed and a micro satellite, TracSat..."

"TracSat is a low-friction testbed for small satellites 2D maneuver testing and demonstration. One of the major applications of TracSat is rendezvous proximity operations — where a LiDAR sensor is used to accurately track its position to another object..."

"Purdue University researchers have developed a new device that uses cold plasma technology, which could transform how medical tools are sterilized. The device generates cold plasma through pure direct current high-voltage instead of the conventional radio frequency or pulsed DC power. This cold plasma has high potential to be used in the fields of sterilization and disinfection, researchers said..."