Project Info

MW-class Spacecraft Power & Propulsion System

Omid Beik
beik@mines.edu

Project Goals and Description:

This project proposes design, prototyping, and demonstration of megawatt (MW)-class spacecraft power and propulsion system. The followings will be investigated throughout the project's period of performance:
  1. Study of different electric propulsion sources suitable for MW-class spacecrafts for long-term crewed missions.
  2. Study of high-thrust high-impulse electric thrusters.
  3. Study of spacecraft low-voltage power system.
  4. Investigate a primary design for a high-voltage electric propulsion and a low-voltage power system for MW-class spacecraft for missions to Mars.
  5. Analyze and simulate the design.
  6. Build and test a small-scale laboratory prototype of spacecraft power and propulsion system.

More Information:

Grand Challenge: Engineer the tools of scientific discovery.
PI's research website: https://www.epowerhubs.com/publications PI's paper on this subject: Omid Beik, Mukund R. Patel, Sarah Talebzadeh, "Large Spacecraft Electric Propulsion Using Multiphase Generator" IEEE Aerospace Conference, Big Sky, MT, USA, Mar. 4-11, 2023.  PI's book on this subject: https://www.routledge.com/Spacecraft-Power-Systems/Patel-Beik/p/book/9781032383484

Primary Contacts:

Dr. Omid Bei, beik@mines.edu

Student Preparation

Qualifications

  1. Student should have a sound background in math and physics.
  2. Familiarity with electric circuits, analyses of components and elements in a circuit.
  3. Familiarity with basics of power systems, components, and analyses.
  4. Passion for space, and power systems.

TIME COMMITMENT (HRS/WK)

4

SKILLS/TECHNIQUES GAINED

  1. The student will learn about space environment, conditions, challenges, and what it takes to set up a power system in space
  2. Student will gain knowledge of high-voltage systems in space
  3. student will gain knowledge of power electronics in space, their design and operation
  4. Student will learn new simulation software
  5. Student will gain hands-on experience working in the lab.

MENTORING PLAN

Student will be provided with a space in the PI's lab where he can work and interact with other lab members. Student will have access to the resources in the PI's lab. Here are some elements in my mentorship:
  1. Clear Communication: To ensure that students feel comfortable reaching out with questions, concerns, or ideas at any stage of the project.
  2. Setting Expectations: I will establish clear expectations regarding goals, deadlines, milestones, and the overall scope of the project.
  3. Regular Check-ins: I will schedule regular check-in meetings to assess progress, provide feedback, and address any challenges or obstacles that students may be facing.
  4. Providing Guidance and Resources: I offer guidance and support to students by sharing relevant resources, suggesting strategies for problem-solving, and offering insights based on my own experiences.
  5. Encouraging Independence and Critical Thinking: I encourage students to take ownership of their projects and develop their problem-solving skills. I challenge them to think critically, explore alternative approaches, and consider the implications of their decisions.
  6. Feedback and Reflection: I provide constructive feedback on students' work to help them identify areas for improvement and build upon their strengths. Additionally, I encourage students to reflect on their progress, identify lessons learned, and consider how they can apply their newfound knowledge and skills in future projects.

Preferred Student Status

Sophomore
Junior
Senior
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