kylmäkaasutukseen

Kylmäkaasutus, or cold gas thruster, is a type of reaction control system used in spacecraft for attitude control and minor orbital adjustments. It utilizes a compressed inert gas, such as nitrogen or helium, that is expelled through a nozzle. The expulsion of this gas generates a thrust that produces a change in the spacecraft's momentum. Unlike hot gas thrusters, cold gas thrusters do not involve combustion; the gas is simply stored under pressure and released. This makes them relatively simple, reliable, and safe.

The principle of operation is based on Newton's third law of motion: for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. When the gas is expelled from the nozzle, the spacecraft experiences an equal and opposite force, causing it to move or rotate. The amount of thrust generated depends on the pressure of the gas, the size of the nozzle, and the duration of the expulsion.

Cold gas thrusters are often used for tasks requiring precise control, such as orienting solar panels, pointing antennas, or performing small maneuvers to avoid collisions. They are particularly suitable for small satellites and spacecraft where simplicity and low power consumption are important. While the thrust produced by cold gas thrusters is generally low compared to other propulsion systems, their simplicity, reliability, and ease of control make them a valuable component in spacecraft design. The stored propellant is inert and does not require complex plumbing or ignition systems.