Bi-modal solar thermal propulsion and power system: Modelling and optimisation for the next-generation of small satellites

Exploring and utilising space to benefit humankind is undeniably a costly venture where the higher the mass of the satellite, the higher the cost to launch. However, the rewards of space-related achievements are indisputable. These achievements range from increasing our understanding of the universe using satellites, such as the Hubble Space Telescope,to improving the predictive ability of weather, climate, and natural disaster phenomena with the help of Earth observation satellites.