4 ms·
I'd expect the fuel required is generally the same, but this changes the altitude range for the question "do I need propulsion at all?" Satellites that would de
by rzimmerman 4y ago
I'd expect the fuel required is generally the same, but this changes the altitude range for the question "do I need propulsion at all?" Satellites that would decay naturally in 6-10 years due to atmospheric drag would have satisfied the old rule. Now they need to install a propulsion system.
The actual impact is probably small - there aren't that many satellites launching to those altitudes, and most of them probably have a propulsion system anyway. But for a university satellite this could be a big obstacle.
- xani_ 4y ago> Now they need to install a propulsion system. Or just add more drag. Like deploying big sail.