Star 5A

Star-5A
Credit - Thiokol

Manufacturer Name: TE-M-863-1. Government Designation: Space Gnat. Other Designations: 32.02-KS-38. Designer: Thiokol. Gross Mass: 4.60 kg (10.10 lb). Empty Mass: 2.33 kg (5.13 lb). Propellants: Solid. Thrust(vac): 166 N (37 lbf). Isp: 250 sec. Burn time: 32 sec. Diameter: 0.13 m (0.43 ft). Chambers: 1. Country: USA. Status: In Production. Flown: 8.00.

Space Gnat is designed to provide a minimum acceleration, extended burn delta-V impulse. With a low average thrust and a unique off-center nozzle design, the motor can be utilized in many nonstandard geometric configurations for small payload replacement or spin-up applications. As with most STAR motors, the STAR 5A has been demonstrated to allow a 20 percent offload capability. The STAR 5A is typical of Elkton DLV division's quick response to small motor needs as it was designed, qualified, and delivered in 10 months. Total impulse 584 kgf-s. Propellant mass fraction 0.493.

Bibliography and Further Reading

Thiokol Corporation Web Site, As of May, 1999. Accessed at: http://www.thiokol.com.

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