• Alternative Propellants
• Electric Propulsion
• Hollow Cathode
• Iodine

The development of electric propulsion systems based on iodine represents a promising alternative to noble gases like xenon, particularly for smaller satellites where high-pressure storage conditions pose limitations. Iodine's properties, including good ionization characteristics, high atomic mass, high storage density, availability, and low cost, make it an attractive option. However, challenges arise due to iodine's condensible nature and chemical reactivity, which differ from noble gases.
The University of Pisa developed a family of iodine-feeding systems using a thermal control system to control the mass flow rate of the iodine. This system also uses an absorption-based laser mass flow meter capable of measuring iodine mass flow rate in real-time.
The present dissertation is aimed at the experimental studies of this absorption-based laser mass flow meter which will enhance the qualification process of iodine-fed propulsion systems. A description of the architectures of both the iodine feeding system and the mass flow meter is provided. The experimental activities are carried out with the aim of performing a calibration of the instrument. The data obtained in the various experimental campaigns have been analyzed.
After modifying and calibrating the iodine feeding system and mass flow meter, the next phase involves integrating this feeding system with a low-current cathode developed at the University of Pisa. Initially, the operation of this cathode has been characterized and assessed using an argon feed line. Following the evaluation with argon, the iodine feeding system will be integrated.