Fast sweeping probe system for characterization of spokes in E × B discharges

Abstract

We have developed a rapidly swept, back-to-back 100 kHz Langmuir probe system using a tunable compensating network to study the temporal evolution of low frequency oscillations in Penning discharges, Hall Thrusters, and other E × B discharges. Experimental validation of the probe system is performed at low and high sweeping frequencies in a stable Penning discharge. Then application of the probe system to measurements of plasma parameter fluctuations in a low frequency (4 kHz) rotating spoke and an analysis method using the Hilbert transform are shown. We find that the rotating spoke oscillation conducts approximately a third of the cross field current in our Penning device.

Document Details

Document Type
Pub Defense Publication
Publication Date
Dec 01, 2018
Source ID
10.1063/1.5053677

Entities

People

  • Eduardo Rodríguez
  • Pavel Dourbal
  • Valentin Skoutnev
  • Yevgeny Raitses

Organizations

  • Air Force Office of Scientific Research
  • Princeton University

Tags

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Atmospheric Science / Meteorology, specifically Wind Wave Turbulence.
  • Pulsed Power and Plasma Physics.

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Hall-Effect Thruster