Heat and fluid control solutions for deep space CubeSat CGPS

Abstract: This thesis is on the subject of how propellant heating considerations affect the design of a CubeSat cold gas propulsion system. Computer simulation tools are used to analyse heat flow through the system, as well as the fluid flow and phase change of butane. The heating performance is presented for different operational states and different designs. Finally, an optimal system design is suggested. The propulsion system in question is the deep space heading Hera Juventas 6DOF CGPS. The Juventas spacecraft will as part of ESA’s Hera mission be the first to perform radar measurements of an asteroid. It will determine the result of the NASA DART mission and will give insights to the internal structure of the Dimorphos minor- planet moon.