Multi-staged multi-hole device for collecting atmospheric gases

Abstract

Disclosed is a device for collecting atmospheric gases from an atmosphere of an orbit of one or more planets and / or a moon of the one or more planets. The device comprises N multi-hole plates arranged sequentially and parallelly. A first multi-hole plate is arranged at a first end of the device. In use, the first end of the device faces an incoming flow of the atmospheric gases from an atmosphere. A given multi-hole plate is spaced apart from another multi-hole plate that is arranged adjacent to the given multi-hole plate. Each multi-hole plate comprises a plurality of holes. Walls of adjacent holes are interconnected. The device further comprises a post multi-hole region, arranged adjacent to an Nth multi-hole plate, and employed to hold the atmospheric gases that are collected at the post multi-hole region upon passing through the N multi-hole plates.

Description

[0001] MULTI-STAGED MULTI-HOLE DEVICE FOR COLLECTING ATMOSPHERIC

[0002] GASES

[0003] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0004] The present disclosure relates to multi-staged multi-hole device for collecting atmospheric gases. The present disclosure also relates to artificial satellites employing such devices for collecting atmospheric gases.

[0005] BACKGROUND

[0006] Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) satellites (namely, artificial satellites operating at altitudes typically ranging from 100 km to 450 km) face significant atmospheric drag, due to a presence of residual atmospheric particles. In order to counteract the atmospheric drag as well as prolong an operational life of these satellites, air-collector structures are often employed in these satellites. A primary purpose of an air-collector structure in a VLEO satellite is to collect residual atmospheric gases (primarily, oxygen and nitrogen) that are present at such altitudes. The collected atmospheric gases can be used for various purposes, including propulsion, maintaining orbit, or even for on-board life support in manned missions.

[0007] Conventional air-collector structures are typically in a form of a widemouthed intake unit, which is designed to capture atmospheric gases. Such a wide-mouthed intake unit is implemented as a funnel-shaped structure. The funnel-shaped structure may include a single multi-hole plate to channel incoming atmospheric gases towards a stem of the funnel-shaped structure, from where the collected gases may be funnelled to a storage tank. However, conventional air-collector structures suffer from several drawbacks. Firstly, they do not have a high collection efficiency. Low collection efficiency results in a low amount of gas collection, which is insufficient to counteract the atmospheric drag effectively. As a result, such air-collector structures cannot be relied on for increasing the operational life of VLEO satellites (namely, to keep the VLEO satellites in orbit for long durations). Secondly, their design is not capable of minimising a loss of collected atmospheric gases. At least some part of the atmospheric gases collected by these air-collector structures escapes back into atmosphere.

[0008] Therefore, in light of the foregoing discussion, there exists a need to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks.

[0009] SUMMARY

[0010] The present disclosure seeks to provide a device for collecting atmospheric gases efficiently, and an artificial satellite employing such a device for collecting atmospheric gases from an atmosphere of an orbit of one or more planets and / or a moon of the one or more planets. The aim of the present disclosure is achieved by a multi-staged multi-hole device for collecting atmospheric gases from an atmosphere of an orbit of one or more planets and / or a moon of the one or more planets, and an artificial satellite employing such a multi-staged multi-hole device for collecting atmospheric gases, as defined in the appended independent claims to which reference is made to. Advantageous features are set out in the appended dependent claims.

[0011] Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the words "comprise" , "include", "have", and "contain" and variations of these words, for example "comprising" and "comprises" , mean "including but not limited to" , and do not exclude other components, items, integers or steps not explicitly disclosed also to be present. Moreover, the singular encompasses the plural unless the context otherwise requires. In particular, where the indefinite article is used, the specification is to be understood as contemplating plurality as well as singularity, unless the context requires otherwise.

[0012] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] FIG. 1A is a schematic diagram of a device for collecting atmospheric gases from an atmosphere of an orbit of one or more planets and / or a moon of the one or more planets, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0014] FIG. IB depicts an orthogonal view of a given multi-hole plate, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0015] FIGs. 2A-2B are half-sectional views of a device for collecting atmospheric gases from an atmosphere of an orbit of one or more planets and / or a moon of the one or more planets, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0016] FIG. 3 depicts an artificial satellite, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0017] FIG. 4A is a graphical representation of how compression ratios increase with increasing number of multi-hole plates in a given device, while FIG. 4B is a graphical representation of how density of gas molecules in a post multi-hole region of the given device increases with increasing number of the multi-hole plates in the given device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0019] The following detailed description illustrates embodiments of the present disclosure and ways in which they can be implemented. Although some modes of carrying out the present disclosure have been disclosed, those skilled in the art would recognize that other embodiments for carrying out or practising the present disclosure are also possible.

[0020] In a first aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a device for collecting atmospheric gases from an atmosphere of an orbit of one or more planets and / or a moon of the one or more planets, the device comprising:

[0021] N multi-hole plates arranged sequentially and parallelly, wherein a first multi-hole plate is arranged at a first end of the device, wherein in use, the first end of the device faces an incoming flow of the atmospheric gases from the atmosphere of the orbit of the one or more planets and / or the moon of the one or more planets, wherein a given multi-hole plate is spaced apart from another multi-hole plate that is arranged adjacent to the given multi-hole plate, wherein each multi-hole plate comprises a plurality of holes, wherein walls of adjacent holes are interconnected; and a post multi-hole region, arranged adjacent to an N^h multi-hole plate, and employed to hold the atmospheric gases that are collected at the post multi-hole region upon passing through the N multi-hole plates.

[0022] The present disclosure provides the aforementioned device that is suitable to be employed in an artificial satellite for collecting atmospheric gases from an atmosphere of an orbit of one or more planets and / or a moon of the one or more planets. A synergistic effect of such a sequential and parallel arrangement of the N multi-hole plates in the device is that it allows for a very high collection efficiency and compression ratio, as compared to configurations that are implemented using a single multihole plate (i.e. only one plate). This arises from a fact that in orbit, an artificial satellite typically moves at velocities as high as 7.8 kilometres per second. Due to such high velocities, the incoming flow is highly collimated; in other words, the incoming flow typically maintains a narrow spread with only about a maximum of a 5-degree deflection from a direction of flight of the artificial satellite. Such a highly-collimated incoming flow easily traverses the multi-hole plates. As a result, the incoming flow of the atmospheric gases enters from the first end of the device (employed in the artificial satellite) through the first multi-hole plate, and passes onto a next multi-hole plate, and so on, until it reaches the post multi-hole region, where the atmospheric gases are accumulated. While passing through the holes of each individual one of these N multi-hole plates, gas molecules (of the atmospheric gases) collide with the walls of these holes. As a result, the gas molecules undergo random particle movement, and their velocities now correspond to a thermal velocity corresponding to a temperature of the walls of the holes; this thermal velocity is much lower than 7.8 kilometres per second and may, for example, be in a range of 400 to 1 800 meters per second. This makes it difficult for the gas molecules to escape back into the atmosphere. Notably, having multiple multi-hole plates makes it even harder for the gas molecules to escape, because the N multi-hole plates create N-l stages (wherein each pair of adjacent multi-hole plates creates a respective one of the N-l stages), all of which need to be crossed by the gas molecules, in order to escape into the atmosphere. This greatly minimises any loss of the collected atmospheric gases. As a result, the atmospheric gases get collected very efficiently. Moreover, the multiple multi-hole plates effectively create compression by allowing the collimated gas molecules to pass through easily in one direction, but hindering their escape back to the atmosphere due to an increased randomness of their directions and the multiple stages created by the multiple multi-hole plates. This makes the aforementioned device highly effective, such that it can be relied on to be employed for increasing an operational life of Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) satellites (namely, artificial satellites operating at altitudes typically ranging from 100 km to 450 km), namely to keep the VLEO satellites in orbit for longer durations. An arrangement of different components in the device ensures that the incoming atmospheric gases traverse through multiple stages of multi- hole plates, wherein each stage contributes to gradual momentum dissipation and thermalisation of the gas molecules. It will be appreciated that the device is not limited to be employed in artificial satellites intended for use in Earth's orbit, and can be employed in other artificial satellites that are intended for use in orbits of other planets (for example, such as Mars, Venus, or similar) and / or an orbit of a moon of a planet that has an atmosphere. The term 'atmospheric gases' in the present disclosure refers to gas molecules and atoms present at altitudes associated with very low Earth orbit (VLEO) satellites. The gases could be considered to be mostly as rarefied atmospheric gases.

[0023] Furthermore, the staged arrangement ensures that incoming atmospheric gases successively encounter structured diffusive surfaces, promoting velocity vector randomisation and directional thermalisation. This progressively reduces a probability of reverse flow towards the first end of the device while simultaneously increasing the probability of transmission into the post multi-hole region. The interconnected wall surfaces eliminate lateral leakage paths and constrain particle transport along the intended flow axis, resulting in improved gas density accumulation in the post multi-hole region under molecular-flow conditions encountered in Very Low Earth Orbit. The device thus enables passive, power-free atmospheric gas collection with enhanced compression performance, which is unattainable with conventional single-stage or grid-based flow configurations lacking multi-stage architectural and geometric optimisation.

[0024] In a second aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides an artificial satellite comprising: a device according to the first aspect, wherein a first multi-hole plate of the device is arranged on a first end of the artificial satellite; a propulsion unit arranged on a second end of the artificial satellite that is opposite to the first end; and a satellite body arranged between the device and the propulsion unit.

[0025] The present disclosure further provides the aforementioned artificial satellite that employs the aforementioned device for collecting the atmospheric gases from an atmosphere of an orbit of one or more planets and / or a moon of the one or more planets. A synergistic effect of a multistaged structure of the device (namely, the N-l stages, each stage being created between a respective pair of adjacent multi-hole plates from amongst the N multi-hole plates) is that the device has a high collection efficiency, due to a reduced loss of the collected atmospheric gases. The device also allows for an increased compression ratio in the post multihole region, by trapping the atmospheric gases better. This also allows for increasing an operational life of the artificial satellite, which can utilise the collected atmospheric gases for various purposes, for example, such as propulsion, maintaining orbit, or even on-board life support in manned missions. Notably, the increased compression ratio results in developing a higher gas pressure, which allows for a higher number of gas molecules to be supplied to the propulsion unit of a satellite. The higher number of gas molecules and the higher gas pressure allow for producing higher thrust, which allows for better drag compensation and reaching even more preferable orbits, where better Thrust-to-Drag ratios can be achieved. The artificial satellite can be implemented as an example as VLEO satellite. It will be appreciated that the artificial satellite is not limited to be implemented for use in Earth's orbit, and can be implemented in an orbit of another planet or a moon of a planet.

[0026] By arranging the first multi-hole plate of the device at the first end of the artificial satellite, which in use faces the direction of orbital motion, the device is exposed directly to the incoming atmospheric gases, thereby maximising molecular intake efficiency. This orientation ensures that gas collection is aligned with the relative velocity vector of the satellite in orbit, improving forward flux capture under free molecular flow conditions. A spatial separation of the propulsion unit and the first multihole plate across opposing ends of the satellite body allows for thermodynamic and flow-field decoupling between the intake and exhaust zones. This minimises re-ingestion of propulsion exhaust gases and prevents reverse contamination of the staged collection system. Because the device achieves compression and gas transfer through passive structural design alone, the artificial satellite is able to sustain long-duration missions without reliance on pumps, valves, or other active intake systems. This significantly reduces system complexity and power consumption, improving mission reliability and extending operational endurance. Furthermore, the directional alignment of the multi-hole plates with the longitudinal axis of the artificial satellite facilitates stable aerodynamic alignment under drag forces, aiding attitude control and reducing the need for active orientation correction systems during atmospheric interface phases. An integration of the device within the artificial satellite body also supports modular satellite architectures, wherein multi-hole plate stages can be scaled or reconfigured based on specific orbital altitudes, mission durations, or gas utilisation requirements. This modularity enables design flexibility across both unmanned and manned orbital platforms.

[0027] Throughout the present disclosure, the terms "N multi-hole plates" and "multi-hole plates" have been used interchangeably. The term "multi-hole plates" has been used to refer to the N multi-hole plates, unless specifically stated otherwise. Similarly, the terms "N-l stages" and "multiple stages" have been used interchangeably. The term "multiple stages" has been used to refer to the N-l stages, unless specifically stated otherwise.

[0028] By "arranged parallelly", it is meant that the multi-hole plates have a parallel orientation relative to each other. In other words, each multi-hole plate is arranged perpendicularly to a longitudinal axis of the device. The multi-hole plates are attached to walls of the device (namely, inner walls of the device). This allows for maintaining the parallel orientation of the multi-hole plates relative to each other.

[0029] By "arranged sequentially", it is meant that there is no other component between these multi-hole plates. As mentioned earlier, the first multihole plate is arranged at the first end of the device, while the multihole plate is arranged adjacent to the post multi-hole region. It will be appreciated that in the device comprising the N multi-hole plates, the term "N^ multi-hole plate" refers to a last multi-hole plate in the device.

[0030] Optionally, N is a positive integer whose value lies in a range of 2 to 7. More optionally, N is a positive integer whose value lies in a range of 3 to 7. As an example, the N can be 2, 3, 4, 5 ,6 or 7. This range provides a beneficial number of multi-hole plates that balances flow conditioning performance with structural efficiency. A value of N less than 2 would not produce sufficient directional scattering or compression, while values greater than 7 may introduce unnecessary system complexity, volume, or weight, especially in compact or orbital deployment scenarios. Within this range, successive multi-hole plates create cumulative thermalisation and alignment effects that reduce reverse flow probability and enhance the transfer of atmospheric gases toward the post multi-hole region. The range of 2 to 7 thus enables a modular and scalable design strategy for passive gas collection systems, improving compression performance without requiring active control elements or energy input. It will be appreciated that a value of N may depend on a size of the device, which, in turn, depends on an overall size of an artificial satellite in which it is to be implemented. Importantly, integrating the device impacts an overall design of the artificial satellite, ranging from mass, power requirements, and structural integrity. Therefore, the size of the device needs to be balanced with primary mission objectives of the artificial satellite. In use, the first end of the device faces the incoming flow of the atmospheric gases from the atmosphere. Thus, the atmospheric gases enter the device through the first multi-hole plate, and move from one multi-hole plate to a next multi-hole plate. As an example, for a device having four multi-hole plates, N is equal to 4. In such an example, the atmospheric gases enter the device upon passing through the first multihole plate, and then pass through a second multi-hole plate, and then pass through a third multi-hole plate, and finally, pass through a fourth multi-hole plate (namely, the last multi-hole plate in this example), to reach the post multi-hole region. The post multi-hole region is employed to at least temporarily hold the atmospheric gases that are collected at the post multi-hole region upon passing through the multi-hole plates. By "at least temporarily", it is meant that the atmospheric gases are not necessarily stored in the post multi-hole region, and can be stored separately in a storage tank. The post multi-hole region is structurally positioned downstream of the multi-hole plate and is operable to receive atmospheric gases that have successively passed through each of the N multi-hole plates. Owing to the staged configuration and wallcollision-induced directional scattering within each multi-hole plate, the velocity vectors of the gas molecules become increasingly randomised with progression through the device. Beneficially, this results in a significant thermalisation effect, whereby the gas molecules entering the post multi-hole region exhibit reduced axial velocities and enhanced isotropic distribution, effectively increasing residence time and gas density within the post multi-hole region. A probability of reverse diffusion of gas molecules toward the first end of the device is thereby greatly reduced, facilitating enhanced passive gas collection under molecular-flow conditions encountered in Very Low Earth Orbit.

[0031] As mentioned earlier, adjacent multi-hole plates are spaced apart from each other. In other words, there are gaps between adjacent multi-hole plates. This creates a respective one of the multiple stages between the adjacent multi-hole plates. Optionally, a spacing between a given pair of adjacent multi-hole plates lies in a range of 5 centimetres to 50 centimetres. More optionally, the spacing lies in a range of 5 centimetres to 20 centimetres. Yet more optionally, the spacing lies in a range of 5 centimetres to 10 centimetres. The spacing could lie in a range from 5, 10, 15, or 20 centimetres up to 10, 20, 30, 40, or 50 centimetres. In configurations wherein said spacing between the given pair of adjacent multi-hole plates lies in the aforesaid range(s), the device enables a spatial separation that is optimised for operation in a rarefied atmospheric environment such as Very Low Earth Orbit. Within the aforesaid range(s), the spacing is sufficient to allow meaningful thermalisation and trajectory dispersion of the gas molecules between successive multi-hole plates, while still maintaining cumulative confinement necessary to direct the gas molecules toward the post multihole region. Spacing below this range may reduce an effectiveness of directional randomisation due to premature plate-to-plate collisions, whereas spacing above this range may result in undesired molecular escape before adequate thermalisation. The aforesaid range(s) thus achieves a balance between residence time, collision probability, and confinement, which contributes to improved efficiency in the collection and holding of atmospheric gases. It will be appreciated that the spacing may depend on the size of the device, which, in turn, depends on the overall size of the artificial satellite in which it is to be implemented. As noted earlier, integrating the device impacts the overall design of the artificial satellite, ranging from mass, power requirements, and structural integrity. Therefore, the size of the device needs to be balanced with the primary mission objectives of the artificial satellite.

[0032] Moreover, optionally, a spacing between a given pair of adjacent multihole plates is different from a spacing between another pair of adjacent multi-hole plates. In an embodiment, a spacing between at least one pair of adjacent multi-hole plates that is in a proximity of the post multi-hole region is larger than a spacing between at least one pair of adjacent multi-hole plates that is in a proximity of the first end of the device. A technical benefit of having a relatively larger spacing in the proximity of the post multi-hole region is that it allows the inflow of the atmospheric gases to thermalise better. As a result, the atmospheric gases undergo random particle movement, such that they are not able to escape back into the atmosphere. This is possible because gradually increasing interplate spacing enables successive reduction of axial velocity of the gas molecules through cumulative wall interactions and scattering, while also increasing a residence time within each downstream stage. As a result, the gas molecules exhibit a high probability of remaining within the multihole region and a reduced probability of escaping in the reverse direction towards the first end of the device. This improves an overall collection efficiency of the device and compression of the atmospheric gases. Moreover, a spacing between a pair of adjacent multi-hole plates increases in a direction from the first end of the device towards the post multi-hole region. This graduated inter-plate spacing enables highly effective reduction of particle kinetic energy and facilitates a deep penetration of atmospheric gases into the device. Consequently, the gas molecules experience a cumulative randomisation of direction, which improves collection efficiency and enhances compression within the multi-hole region. This configuration enhances passive gas collection efficiency without requiring active flow control mechanisms and contributes to a higher compression ratio of atmospheric gases.

[0033] Moreover, as mentioned earlier, each multi-hole plate has a plurality of holes. These holes are in a form of channels that allow the inflow of the atmospheric gases to pass therethrough. Optionally, a central axis of each hole (in each multi-hole plate) is along the longitudinal axis of the device. The longitudinal axis of the device corresponds to the direction of flight, namely a direction in which the artificial satellite (in which the device is to be implemented) would move forward, in use. Thus, the longitudinal axis of the device corresponds to a direction of the inflow of the atmospheric gases into the device. Beneficially, this provides a geometrically consistent and directionally aligned flow path from the first end of the device toward the post multi-hole region. This axial alignment reduces lateral scattering and angular deviation of the gas molecules as they traverse the N multi-hole plates, thereby increasing the probability of forward transmission and reducing reverse loss. The configuration also supports uniform flow collimation and minimises cross-stream interactions between adjacent holes, resulting in improved directional stability and enhanced collection efficiency. The structural regularity introduced by aligning all hole axes with the device's longitudinal axis further enables precise control over gas transport under free molecular and transitional flow conditions. Notably, the direction of the inflow would be opposite to the direction of flight.

[0034] Optionally, holes in a given multi-hole plate are aligned with holes in another multi-hole plate that is adjacent to the given multi-hole plate. This potentially provides continuous and unobstructed axial paths for the atmospheric gases moving from the first end of the device toward the post multi-hole region. This alignment minimises lateral deflection and inter-plate turbulence, allowing the gas molecules that enter a hole in an upstream plate to pass directly into a corresponding hole in a downstream plate without encountering misaligned walls. As a result, the probability of successful forward transfer is increased, while unnecessary scattering and reverse diffusion are reduced. This structural arrangement supports higher flow transmission efficiency and improved gas compression in the post multi-hole region through geometric continuity alone, without the need for aerodynamic shaping or active guidance systems. This implementation may be particularly beneficial in a case where diameters of holes in the given multi-hole plate are same as diameters of holes in the another multi-hole plate. It will be appreciated that the holes in the given multi-hole plate need not be aligned with the holes in the another multi-hole plate, and can be aligned randomly.

[0035] Optionally, holes in a given multi-hole plate have a simple closed curve cross-section. This implementation enables smooth-walled, edge-free flow paths that support predictable molecular trajectories. The simple closed curve cross-section helps minimising abrupt changes in curvature or discontinuities that could induce turbulence, deflection, or undesirable angular scattering during gas transport. Moreover, it enhances wallinteraction uniformity and improves directional thermalisation of atmospheric gases passing through each multi-hole plate. This results in a more stable and controllable flow field across the staged configuration, contributing to enhanced transfer of gas molecules toward the post multihole region and reduced likelihood of reverse escape. Furthermore, the simplicity of the geometry facilitates precise fabrication and scalability, ensuring consistent performance under varying atmospheric conditions.

[0036] Herein, the term "simple closed curve" refers to a connected curve that does not cross itself and ends at the same point where it begins. Examples of a given simple closed curve include, but are not limited to, polygons, circles, ellipses, and freeform closed curves. Notably, despite use of the word "curve" in its name, a simple closed curve is not necessarily curved in shape. It will be appreciated that the given simple closed curve can be made up of any one of: (i) line segments only, (ii) curved lines only, or (iii) a combination of line segments and curved lines. When the given simple closed curve is made up of line segments only, the given simple closed curve is a polygon (for example, such as a square, a rectangle, a hexagon, an octagon, and the like). When the given simple closed curve is made up of curved lines only, the given simple closed curve has a curved shape (for example, such as a circle, an ellipse, and the like). Moreover, optionally, the holes in the given multi-hole plate have at least one of: a hexagonal cross-section, a triangular cross- section, a rectangular cross-section, a square cross-section, a trapezoidal cross-section. This enables structural customisation of the gas flow interface to suit specific atmospheric collection requirements. Any of the aforesaid polygonal cross-sections (such as the hexagonal cross-section) facilitates dense and uniform packing of holes with minimal interstitial space, thereby increasing the open area ratio of each multi-hole plate and improving flow throughput. Shapes such as trapezoidal or triangular can be employed to introduce controlled directional asymmetry in wall interactions, enabling fine-tuning of gas scattering angles and axial collimation. A choice of cross-section thus directly influences the thermalisation, directional filtering, and compression behaviour of gas molecules as they pass through the N multi-hole plates, contributing to enhanced retention in the post multi-hole region and improved passive collection performance. By "at least one of", it is meant that one or more of these cross-section shapes can be used in a same multi-hole plate. It will be appreciated that the holes can have other polygonal cross-sections (for example, such as an octagonal cross section, a parallelogram cross section, or similar) as well. It will also be appreciated that irrespective of a shape of a given simple closed curve (namely, a given cross-section), the term "diameter" refers to a length of a longest line segment that can be drawn between two points on the given simple closed curve.

[0037] Within a given multi-hole plate, walls of adjacent holes are interconnected. This not only allows to improve a structural integrity of the given multi-hole plate, but also enables a maximum amount of the atmospheric gases (namely, a maximum possible throughput of the gas molecules) to pass through the given multi-hole plate at a given time instant. It will be appreciated that the multi-hole plates are made of a material that is capable of withstanding harsh conditions of VLEO, including atomic oxygen corrosion, temperature extremes, and mechanical stress due to drag forces. It will also be appreciated that the number of holes may or may not be the same in different multi-hole plates. Notably, a ratio of a length to a diameter of a hole may be different in at least two of the multi-hole plates. Accordingly, in such a case, a total number of holes in one multihole plate may be different from a total number of holes in another multihole plate.

[0038] In some implementations, a ratio of a length to a diameter of a given hole in an Mth multi-hole plate is smaller than a ratio of a length to a diameter of a given hole in an M+lth multi-hole plate. The ratio of the length to the diameter of the given hole is hereinafter referred to as an "aspect ratio" of the given hole, for the sake of brevity. Continuing from the previous example, for the device having four multi-hole plates, N is equal to 4. In this example, M could be at least one of: 1, 2, 3. Notably, the multi-hole plate and the M + lth multi-hole plate refer to a given pair of adjacent multi-hole plates. In the aforesaid example, there are three pairs of adjacent multi-hole plates, which include a pair of the first multi-hole plate and the second multi-hole plate, a pair of the second multi-hole plate and the third multi-hole plate, and a pair of the third multi-hole plate and the fourth multi-hole plate. In alternative embodiment a ration of length to a diameter of a given hole in Mthmultihole plate is larger than ratio of a length to a diameter of a given hole in M + lthmulti-hole plate.

[0039] A technical benefit of such an implementation is that the atmospheric gases are trapped more efficiently upon passing through the multi-hole plates. As noted earlier, with increased random particle movement, it already becomes difficult for the gas molecules to escape back to the atmosphere. So, a relatively smaller aspect ratio of holes in former multihole plates (including the first multi-hole plate and optionally other multihole plate(s) in a proximity to the first end of the device) as compared to later multi-hole plates (including the last multi-hole plate and optionally other multi-hole plate(s) in a proximity to the post multi-hole region) allows for a relatively larger throughput of the gas molecules, thereby resulting in a highly efficient collection, whilst allowing for compression of the atmospheric gases collected at the post multi-hole region. In other words, a primary role of the former multi-hole plates in the device is to collect the atmospheric gases effectively, while a primary role of the later multi-hole plates is to trap the atmospheric gases and compress the collected atmospheric gases. Thus, having a relatively smaller aspect ratio of the holes in the former multi-hole plates allows to achieve a relatively larger throughput of the gas molecules, while having a relatively larger aspect ratio of the holes in the latter multi-hole plates enables to prevent the gas molecules from escaping back to the atmosphere. In this way, a directional filtering effect is achieved, wherein the gas molecules are increasingly collimated as they advance through successive multi-hole plates. This progressive increase in the aspect ratio of the holes introduces a directional bias in molecular transport: higher aspect ratios in downstream plates reduce the reverse flow probability of the gas molecules, while maintaining a high forward flow transmission probability. As a result, the device passively builds up a higher gas density in the post multi-hole region without requiring active valves or mechanical impellers. A structured aspect ratio gradient enables optimisation of the compression ratio through purely geometric design, offering a significant advantage over fixed-geometry collectors. Optionally, in this regard, an aspect ratio of holes in the last multi-hole plate (namely, the Nthmulti-hole plate) is largest.

[0040] In other implementations, a ratio of a length to a diameter of holes in the Mth multi-hole plate is equal to a ratio of a length to a diameter of holes in the M + lth multi-hole plate. In other words, the aspect ratios of the holes can be the same in all the multi-hole plates. Optionally, a ratio of a length to a diameter of a given hole in a given multi-hole plate lies in a range of 0.05 to 5. More optionally, said ratio lies in a range of 0.1 to 1. Said ratio could lie in a range from 0.05, 0.075, 0.1, or 0.2 up to 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5. It will be appreciated that aspect ratios near a lower end of the aforesaid range facilitate high angular acceptance and low flow impedance, which is beneficial for initial entry of atmospheric gases. Aspect ratios near an upper end of the aforesaid range support collimation and reduce the probability of reverse escape, promoting unidirectional flow toward the post multi-hole region. The aforesaid range therefore allows geometric optimisation of flow transmission and retention characteristics without requiring active control mechanisms. Outside the aforesaid range, either excessive axial length or minimal confinement would degrade flow efficiency or structural feasibility. The specified aspect ratio range provides a controllable mechanism to enhance passive compression and atmospheric gas capture performance. It will also be appreciated that the aspect ratio of the holes in the given multi-hole plate may depend on the size of the device, which, in turn, depends on the overall size of the artificial satellite in which it is to be implemented.

[0041] Continuing from the previous example of the device having four multihole plates, an aspect ratio of holes in the first multi-hole plate, in the second multi-hole plate, in the third multi-hole plate, and in the fourth multi-hole plate could be 0.1, 0.35, 0.6 and 0.85, respectively.

[0042] Optionally, diameters of holes in a given multi-hole plate lie in a range of 0.5 centimetres to 50 centimetres. More optionally, the diameters lie in a range of 1 centimetre to 10 centimetres. The diameters could lie in a range from 0.5, 0.75, 1, or 2 centimetres up to 5, 10, 20, 30, 40, or 50 centimetres. It will be appreciated that the diameters of the holes in the given multi-hole plate may depend on the size of the device, which, in turn, depends on the overall size of the artificial satellite in which it is to be implemented. It will also be appreciated that when the diameters of the holes in the given multi-hole plate lie in the range of 0.5 centimetres to 50 centimetres, the device provides a structural regime optimised for efficient atmospheric gas collection in low-density environments. The hole diameters within this range allow for sufficient molecular throughput while maintaining surface-to-volume ratios suitable for effective wall- induced scattering and directional thermalisation. Moreover, diameters below 0.5 centimetres may introduce excessive wall friction or manufacturing challenges, while diameters above 50 centimetres may lead to reduced directional control and loss of confinement. The aforesaid range ensures a balance between geometric openness and flow guidance, enhancing the ability of the device to transfer and retain atmospheric gases in the post multi-hole region with minimal reverse escape. This dimensional specification supports passive compression and capture performance without reliance on active pumping or sealing systems.

[0043] Moreover, in some implementations, a length of a given hole in an l_th multi-hole plate is shorter than a length of a given hole in an L+lth multihole plate. Continuing from the previous example, for the device having four multi-hole plates, N is equal to 4. In this example, L could be at least one of: 1, 2, 3. Notably, the l_th multi-hole plate and the L+lth multihole plate refer to a given pair of adjacent multi-hole plates. It will be appreciated that L need not be equal to M. In some embodiments only the length is varied, and diameter of the holes is same thru out respective multi-hole plates.

[0044] A technical benefit of such an implementation is that the atmospheric gases are trapped more efficiently upon passing through the multi-hole plates. As noted earlier, with increased random particle movement, it already becomes difficult for the gas molecules to escape back to the atmosphere. So, a relatively shorter length of holes in the former multihole plates (including the first multi-hole plate and optionally other multi- hole plate(s) in a proximity to the first end of the device) as compared to the later multi-hole plates (including the last multi-hole plate and optionally other multi-hole plate(s) in a proximity to the post multi-hole region) allows for a relatively larger throughput of the gas molecules, thereby resulting in a highly efficient collection, whilst allowing for compression of the atmospheric gases collected at the post multi-hole region. In other words, a primary role of the former multi-hole plates in the device is to collect the atmospheric gases effectively, while a primary role of the later multi-hole plates is to trap the atmospheric gases and compress the collected atmospheric gases. Thus, having a relatively shorter length of the holes in the former multi-hole plates allows to achieve a relatively larger throughput of the gas molecules, while having a relatively longer length of the holes in the latter multi-hole plates enables to prevent the gas molecules from escaping back to the atmosphere. This is possible because shorter holes in upstream plates facilitate initial molecular entry and allow wider angular acceptance of the incoming atmospheric gases. As the gas molecules proceed through successive multi-hole plates with progressively longer holes, their axial trajectories are increasingly constrained, which reduces scattering losses and enhances forward flow guidance. The extended hole lengths in downstream plates also increase probability of surface interactions within the hole, thereby reducing the likelihood of reverse transmission toward the first end of the device. This structural progression enables improved retention of gas molecules in the post multi-hole region and enhances the compression effect achievable without requiring active components. Optionally, a length of holes in the last multi-hole plate (namely, the multi-hole plate) is largest.

[0045] In other implementations, a length of holes in the l_th multi-hole plate is equal to a length of holes in the L+lth multi-hole plate. In other words, the length of the holes can be the same in all the multi-hole plates. Furthermore, in some implementations, a ratio of a length to a diameter of a given hole that is positioned at a central portion of a given multi-hole plate is larger than a ratio of a length to a diameter of another hole that is positioned at a peripheral portion of the given multi-hole plate. In other words, there may be holes of different aspect ratios in the same multihole plate. A technical benefit of this is that it allows for the inflow of the atmospheric gases in the peripheral portion of the given multi-hole plate to be almost similar to the inflow of the atmospheric gases in the central portion of the given multi-hole plate. In this way, the device of the present disclosure enables spatial control of gas flow and pressure distribution across a face of each multi-hole plate. Larger aspect ratios at the central portion enhance axial collimation and reduce lateral diffusion of atmospheric gases, effectively guiding more molecules into the deeper regions of the device, while smaller aspect ratios at the peripheral portion allow for greater angular acceptance and pressure relief, which reduces the risk of flow stagnation or vortex formation near the plate edges. This intra-plate variation supports uniform and directionally stabilised transport of the gas molecules toward the post multi-hole region, thereby enhancing collection efficiency and reducing reverse flow loss, particularly under molecular and transition flow regimes. Notably, there is an additional heat exchange between the gas molecules and the walls (namely, the inner walls) of the device, as the gas molecules decelerate as those are collected. Speed of a gas molecule prior collection is approximately 8km / s and when collected 500m / s. Kinetic energy difference converts to heat as per conservation of energy. This additional thermal energy could potentially slow down the inflow of the atmospheric gases in the peripheral portion by causing increased random particle movement. Thus, by having an improved inflow of the atmospheric gases in the peripheral portion of the given multi-hole plate, the overall collection efficiency of the device can be further increased. In some embodiments it is beneficial to have longer channels in the post multi- hole region to effectively prevent particles from escaping back into the atmosphere. The unequal pressure distribution along the multi-hole plate, with the highest pressure likely at the center, necessitates a higher aspect ratio in this area to ensure effective particle retention. In contrast, peripheral regions can have shorter channels due to potentially lower pressure. The specific lengths and ratios will depend on the geometry of the post multi-hole region.

[0046] In other implementations, a ratio of a length to a diameter of holes that are positioned at the central portion of the given multi-hole plate is equal to a ratio of a length to a diameter of holes that are positioned at the peripheral portion of the given multi-hole plate. In other words, the aspect ratios of the holes can be the same throughout the given multihole plate. A technical benefit of this is a simpler design and form factor of the given multi-hole plate, making it easy to manufacture.

[0047] Moreover, in some implementations, a length of a given hole that is positioned at a central portion of a given multi-hole plate is longer than a length of another hole that is positioned at a peripheral portion of the given multi-hole plate. In other words, there may be holes of different lengths in a same multi-hole plate. A technical benefit of this is that it allows for the inflow of the atmospheric gases in the peripheral portion of the given multi-hole plate to be almost similar to the inflow of the atmospheric gases in the central portion of the given multi-hole plate. This is possible because longer holes at the central portion promote collimated forward flow of gas molecules along a principal flow direction, suppressing radial scattering and enhancing directional stability. In contrast, shorter holes at the peripheral portion allow for improved angular accommodation and reduce flow impedance near the edges. This results in more uniform gas transport across the plate area and minimises reverse escape from both central and peripheral zones; thereby improving transfer of atmospheric gases toward the post multi-hole region with enhanced flow convergence and reduced loss, all achieved through structural design without requiring dynamic control elements. Thus, by having an improved inflow of the atmospheric gases in the peripheral portion of the given multi-hole plate, the overall collection efficiency of the device can be further increased.

[0048] In other implementations, a length of holes that are positioned at the central portion of the given multi-hole plate is longer than a length of holes that are positioned at the peripheral portion of the given multi-hole plate. In other words, the length of the holes can be the same throughout the given multi-hole plate. A technical benefit of this is a simpler design and form factor of the given multi-hole plate, making it easy to manufacture.

[0049] The present disclosure also relates to the artificial satellite as described above. Various embodiments and variants disclosed above, with respect to the aforementioned first aspect, apply mutatis mutandis to the artificial satellite.

[0050] As mentioned earlier, the first multi-hole plate of the device is arranged on the first end of the artificial satellite, while the propulsion unit is arranged on the second end of the artificial satellite (that is opposite to the first end). The device is employed to collect atmospheric gases. The propulsion unit is employed to propel the artificial satellite, for example, to maintain the artificial satellite on an orbit.

[0051] In some implementations, the propulsion unit can be used in a purely atmosphere breathing mode. In such implementations, the propulsion unit is configured to utilise only the collected atmospheric gases for propulsion. In other implementations, the propulsion unit can be used in a hybrid mode. In such implementations, the propulsion unit is configured to utilise a propellant in addition to the collected atmospheric gases. In essence, the longitudinal axis of the device is along a longitudinal axis of the artificial satellite, wherein both the longitudinal axes correspond to a direction of flight, namely a direction in which the artificial satellite would move forward along the orbit, in use. Thus, both the longitudinal axes correspond to a direction of an inflow of the atmospheric gases into the device. Notably, the direction of the inflow would be opposite to the direction of flight.

[0052] The satellite body can be arranged adjacent to a post multi-hole region of the device. The satellite body can be in a form of a central structure that houses and supports various components that work together, in use, to ensure the artificial satellite's functionality and longevity in space. The various components may, for example, include one or more of:

[0053] (i) a communication unit, which comprises antennas and transponders that are employed to send and receive communication signals from Earth,

[0054] (ii) an electrical power unit, which typically comprises solar panels and batteries that are employed to generate and store electrical energy, respectively,

[0055] (iii) a thermal control unit employed to manage temperature fluctuations in space,

[0056] (iv) a configuration of sensors (for example, such as gyroscopes or similar) employed to stabilize and orient the artificial satellite correctly, in use.

[0057] (v) one or more additional thrusters that are employed to selectively expel the atmospheric gases in different directions to stabilize or adjust an orientation of the artificial satellite.

[0058] Optionally, the artificial satellite further comprises a first feeding unit that is employed to control a flow of the atmospheric gases from the post multi-hole region of the device to the propulsion unit. A technical benefit of this is that it facilitates in gaining ability to regulate a delivery of collected gases in accordance with real-time operational needs of the propulsion unit. This controlled interface enables buffering and timed release of the compressed atmospheric gases, thereby supporting pulsed or continuous propulsion modes depending on mission requirements. The first feeding unit may also prevent unintended loss of the collected gas due to reverse diffusion or pressure equalisation during orbit transitions. By decoupling the passive gas collection mechanism from the active thrust generation process, the first feeding unit improves system efficiency, stabilises thrust output, and enhances propulsion responsiveness, especially in dynamic orbital environments. The first feeding unit can be employed to supply the atmospheric gases to the propulsion unit. The first feeding unit can be implemented passively, actively or using any other hybrid configuration of a passive feeding unit and an active feeding unit.

[0059] Additionally or alternatively, optionally, the artificial satellite further comprises: a storage tank; a collection unit that is employed to funnel the atmospheric gases from the post multi-hole region of the device to the storage tank; and a second feeding unit that is employed to control a flow of the atmospheric gases from the storage tank to the propulsion unit.

[0060] In this regard, the storage tank allows for the accumulation of atmospheric gases collected over time, decoupling the collection phase from immediate propulsion use. The collection unit ensures directional transfer of gas from the post multi-hole region into the storage tank with minimal loss, while the second feeding unit provides fine-grained control over the timing and rate of gas delivery to the propulsion unit. This architecture supports variable thrust strategies such as burst-mode propulsion or steady-state drag compensation, and enables scheduling of gas usage based on mission phases, orbital altitude, or thermal constraints. It also allows for propulsion continuity during temporary collection interruptions, enhancing system resilience and extending satellite operational life. The collection unit can be implemented passively (namely, as a passive collection unit), actively (namely, as an active collection unit), or using any other hybrid configuration of a passive collection unit and an active collection unit. As an example, an active collection unit may employ electrostatic or electromagnetic fields to funnel the atmospheric gases.

[0061] EXPERIMENTAL PART

[0062] Simulation experiments were conducted to measure a collection efficiency of the device of the aforementioned first aspect using different number of multi-hole plates. It was observed that a density of atmospheric gases collected in the post multi-hole region increased upon increasing the number of multi-hole plates. It was also observed that a most significant improvement in the collection efficiency was brought when four multi-hole plates were used. Increasing the number of multihole plates any further was observed to provide only incremental improvements in the collection efficiency of the device.

[0063] For these experiments, the following configuration of seven multi-hole plates were utilised:

[0064] 1) an aspect ratio of a first multi-hole plate, a second multi-hole plate and a third multi-hole plate was selected as 0.1,

[0065] 2) an aspect ratio of a fourth multi-hole plate and a fifth multi-hole plate was selected as 0.35,

[0066] 3) an aspect ratio of a sixth multi-hole plate was selected as 0.6, and

[0067] 4) an aspect ratio of a seventh multi-hole plate was selected as 0.85. In the experimental setup, a transmission probability of the collected atmospheric gases from the post multi-hole region to the propulsion unit was assumed to be approximately 30%.

[0068] The following were observed:

[0069] (i) using only a single multi-hole plate with an aspect ratio of 0.1 produced a compression ratio of approximately 50 times in the post multihole region,

[0070] (ii) using all of the seven multi-hole plates (with aspect ratios as mentioned above) produced a compression ratio of approximately 143 times in the post multi-hole region.

[0071] A maximum compression ratio that is currently observed in a single multihole configuration is for an aspect ratio of 5. Such a single multi-hole configuration is capable of producing a compression ratio of approximately 95 times. On the other hand, the aforementioned configuration of multiple multi-hole plates is capable of producing a compression ratio of approximately 145 times, which is at least 50% higher than that achievable with a single multi-hole configuration.

[0072] In order to understand why multiple multi-hole plates work better than a single multi-hole plate, there will now be considered an example implementation, wherein:

[0073] (A) a single multi-hole plate has an aspect ratio of 5,

[0074] (B) five multi-hole plates have an aspect ratio of 1 each.

[0075] It will be appreciated that for calculation purposes, a length of the holes in the single multi-hole plate and each of the five multi-hole plates is assumed to be the same.

[0076] Now, there will be used well-known formulae for calculating the transmission probability, wherein "M12" represents a probability of a gas molecule to pass from the atmosphere to the post multi-hole region, and "M21" represents a probability of a gas molecule to escape from the post multi-hole region back to the atmosphere.

[0077] For case (A) of the single multi-hole plate having the aspect ratio of 5:

[0078] Ml 2A= 70%

[0079] M2 1A= 20%

[0080] Compression ratio = M 12A / M21A = 70 / 20 = 3.5

[0081] For case (B) of the five multi-hole plates having the aspect ratio of 1 each:

[0082] Ml 2B= 95%

[0083] M21B= 55%

[0084] Compression ratio = (M 12B / M21B)'K5 = (95 / 55) 5 = 15.4

[0085] It is evident that the five multi-hole plates provide five times more compression than the single multi-hole plate.

[0086] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0087] FIG. 1A is a schematic diagram of a device 100 for collecting atmospheric gases from an atmosphere of an orbit of one or more planets and / or a moon of the one or more planets, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The device 100 comprises N multi-hole plates (depicted as multi-hole plates (1021, 1022, 1023, 1024, ...102N) arranged sequentially and parallelly. Only a part of the N multi-hole plates is shown in FIG. 1A, as marked with a continuity symbol 103. A first multi-hole plate 1021 is arranged at a first end 104 of the device 100. In use, the first end 104 of the device 100 faces an incoming flow (depicted using arrows 106) of the atmospheric gases from the atmosphere of the orbit of the one or more planets and / or the moon of the one or more planets. A direction of these arrows 106 indicates a direction of the incoming flow. A given multi-hole plate is spaced apart from another multi-hole plate that is arranged adjacent to the given multi-hole plate, as shown. Each multi-hole plate comprises a plurality of holes (depicted as holes 108). Walls of adjacent holes are interconnected, as shown.

[0088] The device 100 further comprises a post multi-hole region 110, arranged adjacent to an Nth multi-hole plate 102N, and employed to hold the atmospheric gases that are collected at the post multi-hole region 110 upon passing through the N multi-hole plates 1021-102N.

[0089] FIG. 1A also depicts an artificial satellite 112 in which the device 100 can be implemented, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The artificial satellite 112 comprises the device 100, wherein the first multi-hole plate 1021 of the device 100 is arranged on a first end 114 of the artificial satellite 112. The artificial satellite 112 further comprises a propulsion unit 116 arranged on a second end 118 of the artificial satellite 112 that is opposite to the first end 114, and a satellite body 120 arranged between the device 100 and the propulsion unit 116. In use, the propulsion unit 116 thrusts in a direction depicted using arrows 122. A longitudinal axis of the device 100 and a longitudinal axis of the artificial satellite 112 are depicted using a dashed line, marked 124.

[0090] FIG. IB depicts an orthogonal view of a multi-hole plate 102, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The multi-hole plate 102 may, for example, be any one of the N multi-hole plates 1021- 102N.

[0091] It may be understood by a person skilled in the art that FIGs. 1A-1B include a simplified example implementation of the device 100, for sake of clarity, which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims herein. It is to be understood that a specific implementation of the device 100 is not to be construed as limiting it to specific numbers or shapes of multihole plates, and lengths or aspect ratios of holes in the multi-hole plates. A person skilled in the art will recognize many variations, alternatives, and modifications of embodiments of the present disclosure. In FIGs. 1A- 1B, the multi-hole plates have been shown rectangular in shape for illustration purposes only, and are not limited to a rectangular shape. Moreover, the holes have been shown to have a hexagonal cross-section for illustration purposes only, and are not limited to a hexagonal crosssection.

[0092] FIGs. 2A-2B are half-sectional views of a device 200 for collecting atmospheric gases from an atmosphere of an orbit of one or more planets and / or a moon of the one or more planets, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The device 200 comprises N multi-hole plates (depicted as multi-hole plates (2021-2025) arranged sequentially and parallelly. A first multi-hole plate 2021 is arranged at a first end of the device 200. In use, the first end of the device 200 faces an incoming flow of the atmospheric gases from the atmosphere. A given multi-hole plate is spaced apart from another multi-hole plate that is arranged adjacent to the given multi-hole plate, as shown. Each multihole plate comprises a plurality of holes, as shown. Walls of adjacent holes are interconnected, as shown. The device 200 further comprises a post multi-hole region 204.

[0093] FIGs. 2A-2B are merely examples, which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims herein. A person skilled in the art will recognize many variations, alternatives, and modifications of embodiments of the present disclosure. In FIGs. 2A-2B, the multi-hole plates have been shown circular in shape for illustration purposes only, and are not limited to a circular shape. Moreover, the holes have been shown to have a hexagonal cross-section for illustration purposes only, and are not limited to a hexagonal cross-section.

[0094] FIG. 3 depicts an artificial satellite 300, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The artificial satellite 300 comprises a device 302, wherein a first multi-hole plate 304 of the device 302 is arranged on a first end of the artificial satellite 300; a propulsion unit 306 arranged on a second end of the artificial satellite 300 that is opposite to the first end; and a satellite body 308 arranged between the device 302 and the propulsion unit 306.

[0095] A portion of the first multi-hole plate 304 has been zoomed in to show a cross-section of holes. In FIG. 3, the holes have been shown to have a rectangular cross-section for illustration purposes only, and are not limited to a rectangular cross-section. The holes can be arranged in a tiled manner, as shown.

[0096] FIG. 3 is merely an example, which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims herein. A person skilled in the art will recognize many variations, alternatives, and modifications of embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0097] FIG. 4A is a graphical representation of how compression ratios increase with increasing number of multi-hole plates in a given device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. An X-axis denotes a total number of multi-hole plates in the given device, while a Y-axis denotes the compression ratios.

[0098] FIG. 4B is a graphical representation of how density of gas molecules in a post multi-hole region of a given device increases with increasing number of multi-hole plates in the given device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. An X-axis denotes a total number of multi-hole plates in the given device, while a Y-axis denotes density, expressed as a number of gas molecules per cubic metres.

[0099] FIGs. 4A and 4B are merely examples, which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims herein. A person skilled in the art will recognize many variations, alternatives, and modifications of embodiments of the present disclosure.

Claims

32CLAIMS1. A device for collecting atmospheric gases from an atmosphere of an orbit of one or more planets and / or a moon of the one or more planets, the device comprising:N multi-hole plates arranged sequentially and parallelly, wherein a first multi-hole plate is arranged at a first end of the device, wherein in use, the first end of the device faces an incoming flow of the atmospheric gases from the atmosphere of the orbit of the one or more planets and / or the moon of the one or more planets, wherein a given multi-hole plate is spaced apart from another multi-hole plate that is arranged adjacent to the given multi-hole plate, wherein each multi-hole plate comprises a plurality of holes, wherein walls of adjacent holes are interconnected; and a post multi-hole region, arranged adjacent to an N^h multi-hole plate, and employed to hold the atmospheric gases that are collected at the post multi-hole region upon passing through the N multi-hole plates.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein a ratio of a length to a diameter of a given hole in an Mth multi-hole plate is smaller than a ratio of a length to a diameter of a given hole in an M + lth multi-hole plate.

3. The device of any of the preceding claims, wherein a length of a given hole in an Lth multi-hole plate is shorter than a length of a given hole in an L+lth multi-hole plate.

4. The device of any of the preceding claims, wherein a ratio of a length to a diameter of a given hole that is positioned at a central portion of a given multi-hole plate is larger than a ratio of a length to a diameter of another hole that is positioned at a peripheral portion of the given multi-hole plate.

5. The device of any of the preceding claims, wherein a length of a given hole that is positioned at a central portion of a given multi-hole33 plate is longer than a length of another hole that is positioned at a peripheral portion of the given multi-hole plate.

6. The device of any of the preceding claims, wherein a spacing between a given pair of adjacent multi-hole plates is different from a spacing between another pair of adjacent multi-hole plates.

7. The device of any of the preceding claims, wherein a spacing between a given pair of adjacent multi-hole plates lies in a range of 5 centimetres to 50 centimetres.

8. The device of any of the preceding claims, wherein a central axis of each hole is along a longitudinal axis of the device.

9. The device of any of the preceding claims, wherein holes in a given multi-hole plate are aligned with holes in another multi-hole plate that is adjacent to the given multi-hole plate.

10. The device of any of the preceding claims, wherein holes in a given multi-hole plate have a simple closed curve cross-section.

11. The device of claim 10, wherein the holes in the given multi-hole plate have at least one of: a hexagonal cross-section, a triangular crosssection, a rectangular cross-section, a square cross-section, a trapezoidal cross-section.

12. The device of any of the preceding claims, wherein diameters of holes in a given multi-hole plate lie in a range of 0.5 centimetres to 50 centimetres.

13. The device of any of the preceding claims, wherein a ratio of a length to a diameter of a given hole in a given multi-hole plate lies in a range of 0.05 to 5.

14. The device of any of the preceding claims, wherein N is a positive integer whose value lies in a range of 2 to 7.

15. An artificial satellite comprising:a device of any of the preceding claims, wherein a first multi-hole plate of the device is arranged on a first end of the artificial satellite; a propulsion unit arranged on a second end of the artificial satellite that is opposite to the first end; and a satellite body arranged between the device and the propulsion unit.

16. The artificial satellite of claim 15, further comprising a first feeding unit that is employed to control a flow of atmospheric gases from a post multi-hole region of the device to the propulsion unit.

17. The artificial satellite of claim 15 or 16, further comprising: a storage tank; a collection unit that is employed to funnel the atmospheric gases from a post multi-hole region of the device to the storage tank; and a second feeding unit that is employed to control a flow of the atmospheric gases from the storage tank to the propulsion unit.

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