Physics and Dynamics of Current Sheets in Pulsed Plasma Thrusters

Abstract

In this final report we present the results of our AFOSR-sponsored studies of the physics and dynamics of current sheets in electronmagnetic, pulsed, plasma thrusters (PPTs). The research project focused on the fundamental aspects of the physics and dynamics that are most relevant to improving the performance of PPTs. In particular, we focused on the problems of current sheet canting and current sheet initiation, both of which can lead to adverse effects on the mass utilization and propulsive efficiencies of PPTs operating in the electromagnetic mode.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Aug 06, 2002
Accession Number
ADA404756

Entities

People

  • Edgar Choueiri
  • James Cooley
  • John Berkery
  • Thomas Markusic

Organizations

  • Princeton University

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Advanced Electronics
  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Cameras
  • Dynamics
  • Electromagnetic Fields
  • Electron Density
  • Electron Emission
  • Ionization
  • Laser Beams
  • Lasers
  • Light Sources
  • Measurement
  • Optics
  • Photographs
  • Photography
  • Pulsed Plasma Thrusters
  • Spectroscopy
  • Thrusters
  • Waveforms

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Aerospace Propulsion Engineering.
  • Plasma Physics / Magnetohydrodynamics
  • Research Science/Academic Research

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Hall-Effect Thruster