Development of Advanced Hall Plume Models
Abstract
The purpose of this work was twofold: (a) To develop numerical or analytical methods capable of dealing with the combination of three-dimensionality and strong anisotropy that occurs in the plume region near the exit of a Hall thruster, and (b) To explore the use of fluid-based models in plume computations, so as to overcome the granularity associated with normal particle-based approaches. In area (a) we have carefully formulated the 3D near-plume problem using a combination of heavy particle tracking and magnetized electron fluid equations, and have to a large extent clarified the structure of the solutions, such that numerical implementation should be greatly facilitated. In area (b) we have concentrated on an examination of the far-field of the plume, where the geomagnetic field takes over the dynamics. Again, only a formulation and a suggested method for numerical implementation were completed. Two graduate Theses are still in progress in these two areas, and we expect to issue a supplementary report when they are finalized.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 11, 2006
- Accession Number
- ADA455687
Entities
People
- Jaume Peraire
- Manuel Martinez-sanchez
Organizations
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology