Hi Jack,
Absolutely! Several AMSAT technologist have been keeping close ties to the people trying to build these small propulsion (usually ion) motors. We have also been present at various small motor propulsion conferences.
Personally, I'm a firm believer that the technology is not that far off that would permit orbital modifications of LEO satellites. It's an intuitive, inevitable solution to the problem of using the lower cost LEO orbit launches, and then moving upwards - something not just Amateurs would like, but the whole commercial satellite industry as well.
AMSAT is watching it closely and as soon as the right mix of motor technology/supplier and satellite size come together, you'll know about it.
Regards...Bill - N6GHz
Jack K. wrote:
http://www.southgatearc.org/news/march2010/cubesat_to_raise_orbit.htm _______________________________________________ Sent via AMSAT-BB@amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb