Dual-source propulsion for VLEO satellites: Combining atmospheric-breathing electric propulsion (ABEP) with onboard propellant for extended mission lifetime

Abstract

Very low Earth orbit provides unique benefits for Earth observation and communications, but missions are limited by strong drag and atomic oxygen erosion. A dual-source propulsion framework is developed that couples atmosphere-breathing electric propulsion with onboard xenon thrusters to ensure continuous drag compensation. Aerodynamic performance is quantified using the SPARTA direct simulation Monte Carlo solver for a GOCE-inspired geometry, while intake degradation is represented through a molecular-dynamics–derived surrogate calibrated against flight exposure data. This approach yields time-dependent capture efficiency and drag coefficients without repeated high-fidelity reruns. A hysteretic switching law activates xenon propulsion during low-density episodes, complementing atmosphere-breathing operation. Stochastic orbital propagation incorporating density variability, intake degradation, and thrust margins produces duty cycles, propellant budgets, and lifetime distributions. The framework provides a reproducible method for feasibility assessment of very low Earth orbit platforms, highlighting intake efficiency, erosion resistance, and power balance as primary design constraints