Deorbit kit demonstration mission

In Low Earth Orbit, it is possible to use the ambient plasma and geomagnetic field exchange momentum with Earth's magnetosphere without using propellant. A device that allows an efficient electrodynamic tether (EDT), a long conductor attached satellite. EDT technology has been demonstrated in several past missions, being Plasma Motor Generator mission (NASA 1993) one of most successful. Nevertheless, not until today reality imposed strong need concrete case for developing this technology. March 2019, European Commission project Electrodynamic Tether PAssive Consumable-less deorbit Kit (E.T.PACK) started design new generation EDT. After completing phase, consortium manufactured currently testing Deorbit Demonstrator (DKD) breadboard based on The objective E.T.PACK reach Technology Readiness Level equal 4 by 2022. DKD standalone 24-kg satellite demonstrate performances improved solution validate its ultra-compact deployment system. composed two modules will separate orbit extending 500-m tape-like tether. deployed bare-Aluminium capture electrons from passively circuit be closed ionospheric active electron emitter. take advantage novelties respect flown allow optimize system volume mass. Once successful orbit, team plans develop suite systems capable deorbiting satellites between 200 1000 kg altitude up 1200 km few months. work presents current status de-orbit kit demonstrator breadboard, simulations development approach.