WATS: Western Aerospace Thin-Sat
Western Aerospace students test innovative plasma-sensing technology designed for next-generation CubeSat propulsion systems.
Payload Overview: Electrospray Propulsion Technology
The primary goal of the Western Aerospace Thin-Sat (WATS) mission is to validate and test technology that will be used in future CubeSat missions. Demonstrating a single polarity electrospray propulsion system.
The Thin-Sat payload contains a custom instrument with two modes of operation, allowing it to function as either a Langmuir probe or a spacecraft potentiometer. In the Langmuir probe setting, it measures local plasma properties, while in the potentiometer mode it measures the potential difference of the spacecraft. This instrument is unique, as it is not commercially available and represents a novel design developed by the Western Aerospace team.
High-Altitude Balloon Testing
As part of the Dream Big mission, student payloads were tested on high-altitude balloons reaching nearly 90,000 feet. These flights provided a near-space environment similar to orbit, giving teams the chance to evaluate their payloads under real conditions.
Beyond testing, the balloon launches also became an incredible outreach opportunity, sparking curiosity and inspiring younger students to explore space research and education.
Click below to see results from one of Western Aerospace’s high-altitude balloon launches!
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