About the Electric propulsion laboratory
We use the electric propulsion lab to create a space-like environment, which allows us to test spacecraft components.
Space conditions are simulated with a large vacuum chamber.
We use the lab to test:
- electric propulsion systems, particularly plasma-based thrusters, used in spacecraft propulsion
- spacecraft components such as communications systems and satellite payloads
Components can be heated up to 100 degrees Celsius or down to minus 50 degrees Celsius to simulate conditions in lower Earth orbit.
