Master Thesis
Feasibility Study of Water Electrolysis Propulsion for an Enceladus Plume-Diving Probe: Power, Thermal, and ISRU Systems Analysis
Feasibility study of a mission concept using water electrolysis propulsion for an Enceladus plume-diving probe, with focus on power, thermal, and ISRU systems analysis.
Image/diagram placeholder. Replace later with project figures, plots, or mission visuals.
Overview
This master thesis investigates the feasibility of a water electrolysis-based propulsion system for a probe designed to dive through the plumes of Enceladus, Saturn's moon. The plumes provide both a propellant source (water) and a scientific sampling opportunity.
Scope
The study covers power system sizing, thermal management under extreme conditions, in-situ resource utilisation (ISRU) from plume-harvested water, and integrated systems analysis at the mission concept level.
Methods
The analysis employs analytical modelling and simulation-based approaches, including thermal network modelling, power budget analysis, and subsystem trade studies. Tools include Python, MATLAB, and LaTeX for documentation.
Tools
Python, MATLAB, LaTeX, analytical thermal modelling.
Planned Additions
Detailed technical summary, system diagrams, modelling assumptions, subsystem tradeoff results, and selected outputs will be added here once the thesis is submitted and public material is cleared for publication.