Operational Feasibility Analysis of a Cryogenic Active Intake Device for Atmosphere-Breathing Electric Propulsion

Abstract: Atmosphere-breathing electric propulsion (ABEP) systems are emerging for orbit maintenance in very-low-Earth orbit (VLEO) by capturing atmospheric propellant \textit{in situ} using an intake device. A previous study proposed the cryocondensation-regeneration active intake device (CRAID) to significantly enhance intake performance. This study investigates the operational feasibility of CRAID. A conceptual prototype model (CPM) is presented to verify its feasibility, and numerical analyses demonstrate the practical operational sequences, required cryocooler capacity, intake performance, and flight envelope. The numerical analyses employ the direct simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) method with a phase change model and a 0D analytical model for RF ion thrusters. A significant improvement in intake performance is estimated based on the practical sequences, with compression performance at least 1000 times higher than that of prevalent intake devices. The capability for consistent propellant supply is observed regardless of atmospheric conditions. A model satellite incorporating CPM confirms that CRAID enables complete drag compensation at altitudes above 190 km without limiting the upper boundary of the flight envelope.