Hall Effect Thruster Ground Testing Challenges
Abstract
This paper presents the challenges in the ground testing of Hall effect thrusters for plasma spacecraft propulsion applications. Hall effect thrusters by virtue of their high specific impulse can reduce spacecraft station-keeping propulsion mass by as much as an order of magnitude. However, testing and qualifying such plasma propulsion systems for use on spacecraft has a number of challenges. These challenges include the need for simulating the space environment, measuring very low thrust levels, determining lifetime, and under-standing the interaction of the energetic plume with spacecraft surfaces. Overcoming these challenges requires the use of both measurements and simulations of the complex plasma- surface interactions. It is only through the combined use of test and measurement resources that these plasma thrusters can be adequately characterized for on orbit qualification.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 18, 2009
- Accession Number
- ADA506238
Entities
People
- Michael R. Nakles
- William A. Hargus
Organizations
- Air Force Research Laboratory