Propulsion |
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The propulsion subsystem features sets of small thrusters and a
main engine. The thrusters are needed to perform Odyssey's attitude
control and trajectory correction maneuvers, while the main engine is
used to place the spacecraft in orbit around Mars.
The main engine, which uses hydrazine propellant with nitrogen
tetroxide as an oxidizer, produces a minimum thrust of 65.3 kilograms
of force (144 pounds of force). Each of the four thrusters used for
attitude control produce a thrust of 0.1 kilogram of force (0.2 pound
of force). Four 2.3-kilogram-force (5.0-pound-force) thrusters are
used for turning the spacecraft.
In addition to miscellaneous tubing, pyro valves and filters, the
propulsion subsystem also includes a single gaseous helium tank used
to pressurize the fuel and oxidizer tanks.
The propulsion subsystem weighs 49.7 kilograms (109.6 pounds).
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