24.6.26 Mechanical Engineering and S.E.C. Lecture Series- Dr. Daniel Portnoy will be giving a seminar in Hebrew on:" ABEP - Atmosphere-Breathing Electric Propulsion for Space Missons " at Wolfson building class no. 108

Please note that the seminar will be given in Hebrew.

Abstract:

Atmosphere-Breathing Electric Propulsion (ABEP) is considered one of the most promising technologies for operating satellites in very low orbits (VLEO), at altitudes of approximately 150–250 km. The main idea is to collect residual atmospheric particles and use them as propellant, thereby eliminating or reducing the need for fuel carried on board the satellite. The lecture will present the operating principle of ABEP systems, starting from the intake system, through the processes of plasma compression, ionization and acceleration, and creating the thrust required to compensate for atmospheric drag. The main barriers that hinder the maturation of the technology will be presented, including low and variable mass collection rates, difficulties in compressing a thin flow, complex plasma chemistry of oxygen and nitrogen, erosion caused by atomic oxygen, power limitations, longevity issues, and difficulty in testing.

BIO:

Dr. Daniel Portnoy is a space systems engineer, astrophysicist and lecturer with over 30 years of experience in the fields of space engineering, mission planning, thermal control of satellites, nano-satellites and research and development.

He holds a PhD in astrophysics from the Technion, and has worked with the Ministry of Defense, Israel Aerospace Industries, Elbit Systems and leading academic institutions. He currently lectures at Tel Aviv University and directs research and projects in the fields of space engineering, lunar navigation, electric propulsion and satellites.