Work

What we do at SEPIA Lab 🪐

At KAIST-SEPIA Lab, we focus on pioneering research in advanced space propulsion systems. Our work encompasses a broad spectrum, ranging from fundamental physics to engineering applications. We are currently working on electric propulsion, particularly aiming at developing prototype thrusters and their subsystems, integrating and testing the in-house electric propulsion systems, and investigating the underlying plasma physics via plasma diagnostics. We further expand our research into various plasma-materials interactions using low-temperature plasma and ion beam sources, from which we aim to inspire advanced conceptual ideas for next-generation electric propulsion devices.

I. Space electric propulsion

Micro & large-scale electric thruster and subsystem
Ion beam characterization via numerical analysis & plasma diagnostics
Vacuum test facility effect

II. Ion-beam & low-temp. plasma source

Plasma-material interactions
Physical vapor deposition
Plasma-assisted combustion
Next-generation electric propulsion device

Current research project 🌕

Space-K-big project by Korea AeroSpace Administration, Center for Future Space Exploration Research (25.07 - )

Vision 🚀

Electric propulsion (EP) is one of the most advanced space propulsion systems to date and enables fuel-efficient space travel. Thanks to the high exhaust velocity of its propellants, EP significantly reduces the amount of fuel needed compared to conventional chemical propulsion. Although a typical EP for small satellites provides thrust around an order of 0.01 N, a force barely capable of pushing a sheet of paper, this propulsion system facilitates a variety of advanced space missions.

Since its initial use in space in the 1960s, the number of spacecraft equipped with electric propulsion systems has gradually increased. A notable surge in adoption has recently occurred, driven by the widespread use of small satellite constellation missions. The utilization of EP systems is expected to continue its growth, particularly in advanced missions. These include not only the constellation missions in the low Earth orbit, but also encompass a larger scale cargo transport or even manned missions to the different solar objects.

EP has different operational principles depending on how the electricity is converted to the acceleration force, and each type has different underlying physics that needs to be investigated. SEPIA at KAIST pursues research on various EP devices to further enhance the technological readiness levels and hopes EP can eventually contribute to successful advanced space missions.

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