Trends in Flight-Operated Small-Satellite Propulsion Technologies

The development and execution of prospective inner and outer space missions require focusing on the use of many small space vehicles operating in swarms with multiple informational, navigational, and mission-oriented interactions among themselves. Such missions involve providing communication and surveillance services, facilitating distributed material production in space, and conducting research expeditions to explore the resources and environments of new worlds. The cornerstone technology for operating distributed space systems is propulsion. Among a range of propulsion technologies—from using pressurized cold gases to implementing laser beams to generate thrust—certain methods stand out for application in small spacecraft. This paper provides a summary of space-operated propulsion, emphasizing the reasons for the more frequent adoption of one technology over another. The discussion on propulsion trends is complemented by examining the physical, engineering, production, operational, and societal rationale behind these choices. The findings reinforce the trend toward transitioning to fully electric satellites. This review serves as a means for reevaluating global propulsion trends and guiding the future development of inner and outer space propulsion-assisted economies effectively.