Electrothermal propulsion system selection for communication satellite NSSK maneuver using multi criteria decision making method

Choosing proper space propulsion systems for communication satellites is an important issue for space system engineers. Although there are a lot of alternatives, selection of the system which fits well with the mission requirements depends on many parameters. In this study, thruster selection for the north-south station keeping maneuver of communication satellites is performed. Three kinds of electrothermal thrusters which are resistojet, arcjet and microwave electrothermal thruster considered as alternatives, and properties of the systems are defined. Fuzzy TOPSIS Multi Criteria Decision Making Method is used to evaluate the linguistic variables and their corresponding fuzzy numbers. Specifically, the feasibility of microwave electrothermal thruster for such a mission among the electrothermal thrusters is investigated.