Thrust measurement and thrust balance development at DLR’s electric propulsion test facility

Abstract Electric space propulsion thrusters only produce low thrust forces. For the fulfillment of a mission this implies long thruster runtimes, and entails qualification times on ground. such testing times, ground facility requires vacuum chamber powerful pumping system which can guarantee high over extended under gas load. DLR’s STG-ET is test facility. It has capability for noble gases typically used as propellants. One basic diagnostic tool measurement device, among various other systems required electric testing, e.g. beam diagnostics. At DLR we operate balance developed by company AST with range 250 mN capable weights up to 40 kg. Adversely, it bulky heavy device all upgrades work needs be done in large chamber. In order have smaller at hand second stand development DLR. The idea light compact that could also placed one chambers. Furthermore, calibration more robust whole equipped watercooled housing. First tests are promising showed resolution well below 1 mN. paper give background information about chamber, describe basics new balance.