Nano- and micro-fabricated materials and technologies for propulsion systems of small satellites

Growing demand for CubeSat and small satellite technologies continue to drive innovation in space systems, demanding increasingly efficient and compact subsystems including propulsion. Their inherently limited size and mass impose stringent constraints on design, necessitating the development of highly miniaturized components with complex geometries. Nano-and Micro-Fabricated Material Systems offer a transformative solution by enabling the fabrication of intricate structures that combine exceptional mechanical strength with minimal mass. Beyond structural optimization, these systems support advanced functionalities such as enhanced heat transfer, thermal shielding, and electromagnetic radiation screening, many of which remain unattainable through conventional subtractive manufacturing methods. This review highlights the current capabilities of nano-and micro-fabricated material systems in addressing key challenges in satellite production, with particular emphasis on their integration into propulsion subsystems and structural elements. The Outlook section outlines emerging opportunities and unresolved challenges at the intersection of satellite engineering and artificial intelligence, underscoring the need for efficient cross-disciplinary collaboration among researchers to fully realize the potential of these material systems in future satellite platforms.