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Insight3 Feb 2023

Machine Learning Transforms Langmuir Probe Plasma Diagnostics

Cambridge Journal of Plasma Physics publishes breakthrough research demonstrating how machine learning overcomes traditional analytic approximations for improved plasma parameter inference.

A new approach combining kinetic simulations with machine learning provides practical solutions for Langmuir probe plasma diagnostics beyond orbital motion limited conditions, achieving inference accuracy within 2%. The technique is particularly suitable for aerospace applications such as Hall thrusters.

NASA's DiskSat Technology Demo Launches to Low Earth Orbit

Insight18 Dec 2025

Spacecraft Technology

NASA's DiskSat Technology Demo Launches to Low Earth Orbit

NASA's DiskSat mission tests a new flat, disk-shaped small spacecraft platform designed to expand current capabilities, reduce mission costs, and increase space access through innovative design.

DiskSat features a flat disk design measuring 1 meter in diameter and 2.5 cm thick, offering larger surface area and superior thermal management compared to traditional CubeSats. Equipped with electric propulsion for orbit changes and maintenance, it's suitable for very low Earth orbit (VLEO) operations, providing high-resolution Earth observation and low-latency communications. Four DiskSats will be sequentially deployed from a specialized dispenser to validate this innovative architecture's advantages in reducing costs and expanding scientific opportunities, supporting NASA's Moon-Mars exploration and Earth research goals.

NASA's Two-in-One Satellite Propulsion Demo Begins In-Space Test

Insight17 Dec 2025

Space Technology

NASA's Two-in-One Satellite Propulsion Demo Begins In-Space Test

NASA is testing two new micropropulsion technologies on the DUPLEX CubeSat deployed from the ISS, using polymer fibers to provide safe and affordable propulsion performance.

The DUPLEX CubeSat carries two complementary propulsion systems: a fiber-fed pulsed plasma thruster using Teflon for high-impulse pulsed thrust via arc discharge, ideal for orbital maneuvers; and a monofilament vaporization system inspired by 3D printers that heats Delrin polymer for continuous thrust, perfect for precision attitude control. The system will validate capabilities over two years by raising and lowering orbit, providing safe, affordable propulsion solutions for small satellites to support LEO economy and deep space missions.

Final Steps Underway for NASA's First Crewed Artemis Moon Mission

Insight9 Jan 2026

Space Exploration

Final Steps Underway for NASA's First Crewed Artemis Moon Mission

NASA is preparing to roll out the SLS rocket and Orion spacecraft to the launch pad for final testing and rehearsals ahead of the first crewed deep space mission in over 50 years.

NASA plans to roll the Artemis II SLS rocket and Orion spacecraft from the Vehicle Assembly Building to Launch Pad 39B no earlier than Jan 17, a 4-mile, 12-hour trek. A wet dress rehearsal will follow, loading 700,000+ gallons of cryogenic propellant. The crew includes NASA's Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and CSA's Jeremy Hansen for a ~10-day lunar flyby. The launch window opens as early as Feb 6. This is NASA's first crewed Artemis flight, marking humanity's return to deep space after more than 50 years.

Application Note8 Dec 2024

Lunar Plasma

Rashid-1 Multi-Needle Langmuir Probe: An Engineering Playbook for Lunar Plasma

The UAE's Rashid-1 rover flew four Langmuir probes to map the photoelectron sheath at multiple heights with compact, low-power electronics.

The review covers the four-probe layout with guards and graphite coating, high-impedance TIAs with 1×/10× gain, a −10V to +10V bias sweep at 60 Hz–4 kHz, and calibration via sourcemeter, thermal-vacuum, and argon-plasma tests plus 3D PIC-based inversion.

Electric Propulsion: The Engine of a New Space Era

Insight26 June 2025

Space Technology

Electric Propulsion: The Engine of a New Space Era

Electric propulsion converts electrical power to thrust via ion and Hall thrusters, reshaping space exploration.

Electric propulsion represents a transformative leap for spaceflight, accelerating propellant via electrostatic or electromagnetic fields. Ion engines stand out for high efficiency and specific impulse, ideal for long-duration missions. By 2019, more than 500 spacecraft had adopted electric propulsion—missions such as NASA's Dawn and ESA's SMART-1 showcased its capability. Continuous low-thrust acceleration enables complex maneuvers and journeys to Mars and beyond.