Electric Micropropulsion
Abstract
Results from two research are report in this paper: 1) fully kinetic modeling of the plasma in Hall thrusters, and 2) fluid modeling plus time-of-flight experiments on cone-jet colloid emitters for micropropulsion. The objective of the research in task 1 is to develop computational techniques to calculate the electron distribution function in low density plasmas with geometries and parameters which are realistic for application to Hall and ion thrusters. This effort will support general micro-engine work since miniaturization reduces the required number of grid cells and microthrusters will therefore be the first beneficiaries of this new theoretical tool, The benefits will include improved diagnostics and more realistic performance modeling of future microthrusters designs, as well as the ability to calculate cross-field electron transport properties from first principles. The aim of the task 2 experiment is to construct physically-based models of the operation of colloidal engines, and to use them in support of laboratory studies on the optimization of these thrusters. The results will be used for the design of a microfabricated colloidal engine cluster, with the goal of reducing both, operating voltages and mass/power, without compromising performance.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 08, 2003
- Accession Number
- ADA411680
Entities
People
- Manuel Martinez-sanchez
Organizations
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology